It can be difficult to determine whether your child may need glasses, and your child is unlikely to realize that their vision is different from anyone else’s. There are a few ways to determine if your child is a likely candidate for needing corrective eyewear.
Family History
The first thing you should consider is your own history of wearing eyeglasses. Often, poor vision is hereditary. Your child may need eyewear at approximately the same time you once did. As your child approaches the same age, keep an eye out for any changes in your child’s behavior. If their grades begin to slip, or if they begin to act out or become withdrawn, vision difficulties may be the culprit.
School
Speaking to your child’s teacher is another good idea. Your child’s teacher sees your child in the majority of situations when eyeglasses are necessary. Many teachers have dealt with students who, at times, did in fact need an eye exam and eyeglasses without knowing. A note or an email to your child’s teacher will go quite a way in confirming your suspicions.
Playtime
Watching your child at home and play is another possible idea. As your child plays at home, look for certain clues that an eye exam may be necessary. A squint is the first and most obvious sign that your child is struggling to see properly. Squinting is a normal reaction for someone who needs eyewear. Things at a distance appearing fuzzy do become focused as you squint. Watch your child as they try to catch a ball or look for a toy across the room and look for their squinting.
Other Notable Behaviors
Does your child tilt their head to one side or the other while watching television? Do you notice them closing one eye or turning their head to watch television or read? While not as noticeable as a squint, it is a clue that something could be wrong with their eyes and an exam is necessary. If your child is complaining of frequent headaches or you note their eyes tear without reason, it may be time to consult an optometrist for an eye check.
Schedule an Eye Exam
The American Optometric Association recommends that all children have their eyes checked on a regular basis, whether they are displaying signs that they need corrective eyewear or not. However, scheduling an eye exam should take top priority if you notice any signs that your child may not have perfect vision. If your child does need glasses, there are many styles and frames available to match your kiddo’s personality and activity levels. Remember, waiting to get an eye exam will not help: if you feel your child needs an eye exam, schedule one soon.
Des Taylor is Senior Vice President of Merchandising of Eyeglass World, a nationwide eyeglasses superstore. With over 60 superstores across the country, Eyeglass World is one of the industry’s leading eyewear chains. Each Eyeglass World location has a lab in-store which allows them to fill prescription eyeglasses in the same day in most cases. Learn more about prescription glasses at https://www.glassesca.com/