You may have noticed you vision worsening when you were in school. Good vision health is important for children of all ages. During the first 12 years of their lives, 80 percent of what children learn is through their eyes.
Children need good vision to have a better chance to learn. The American Optometric Association (AOA) estimates that 25 percent of school-age children have a vision problem that may affect their learning and behavior. Children who can’t see a whiteboard, or have trouble seeing things right in front of them, might withdraw and not participate in class. And they miss out on the opportunity to learn and grow.
Signs of vision problems
Many children need glasses, but don’t recognize the problem because they believe the way they see is normal. Parents, teachers and caregivers should watch out for these signs that a child may be struggling with a vision problem:
- Complains frequently about headaches or tired eyes
- Avoids activities that require near vision, such as reading or homework
- Avoids activities that require distance vision, including participation in sports or play activities
- Sits too close to the TV or holds a book too close to his or her face
- Loses place or skips words while reading
- Uses a finger to guide eyes when reading
- Rubs eyes frequently
- Writes uphill or downhill
It’s important for parents and caregivers to talk regularly with children about their vision to find out whether they are experiencing any problems. A few questions to ask: “Are your eyes ever sore?” or “Can you see things clearly up close and far away?”
Age recommendations for eye exams
The AOA recommends that children receive comprehensive eye exams (not just a vision screening) at the following ages to ensure the health of their eyes:
- Age 1
- Age 3
- Age 5 or 6 – before entering the first grade
- Every one to two years thereafter, as determined by your eye doctor
View our video on kids’ vision concerns to learn more.
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