7 signs your child needs an eye test
As adults, it’s fairly easy to notice changes in our vision or other signs that we might need an eye test. Problems focusing on objects nearby or those at a distance, headaches and general vision changes all suggest it’s time to book an appointment with the optician. But how do you tell if your child needs an eye test for glasses? Here, we outline common signs that indicate sight issues.
1. Squinting or head tilting
If you notice your child is squinting or tilting their head to help them see objects, it’s likely they are struggling with their vision.
2. Clumsiness or poor coordination
General clumsiness such as bumping into things can suggest a problem with eyesight, as can issues with hand-eye coordination. If your child struggles to stack blocks or catch a ball, for example, they may need an eye test appointment. It’s important to note, however, that children develop these skills at different paces.
3. Eye rubbing
If your child frequently rubs their eyes or complains of eye soreness, especially when watching TV, using a screen or reading, they may be experiencing sight issues.
4. Holding books too close
Similarly, if your child sits very close to the TV or holds books close to their face, they may be struggling with distance vision. You might also notice that they lose their place a lot when reading.
5. A wandering eye
A visual cue that your child needs an eye test for glasses is a ‘wandering’ or ‘lazy’ eye. This is when one eye appears misaligned and appears to look in a different direction to the other.
6. Frequent headaches
A child who is complaining of frequent headaches or eye pain, particularly at the end of the day, could be overexerting their eyes in an effort to focus.
7. Lack of focus on schoolwork
Children of school age are required to focus on whiteboards, tablets, books and more. Vision problems may manifest as a lack of focus on schoolwork, or avoidance of tasks such as reading or drawing.
When will my child’s eyes be checked?
Your child’s eyes will typically be checked several times in the first years of their life. Newborns are checked within 72 hours of birth for obvious physical problems, and a follow-up exam is usually carried out at six to eight weeks old.
Between 12 and 30 months, your child will undergo a health and development review. You may be asked if you have any concerns about their eyesight as part of this, and an eye test can be arranged if necessary. The final screening occurs shortly after your child starts school, and checks for reduced vision in one or both eyes. It should be carried out in school, but if it is not, you will need to book an appointment with your optician.
Children’s eye tests in London
If you feel your child might need an eye test and glasses, or they are due for a routine sight check, the experts at The Eye Establishment can help. We offer comprehensive assessments of sight and eye health, and can help your child find the perfect pair of glasses if necessary. Contact us today to book.