As back-to-school preparations are under way, children’s health shifts into focus. Work with the youngsters in your life to make sure they start school off with success!
Refractive errors are the most common vision problem school-aged children face. A child may need help if they are doing any of the following :
1. Consistently sitting too close to the TV or holding books or electronic devices very close to their face.
2. Losing their place whole reading, or using a finger to guide the eyes
3. Squinting or tilting the head to view things better
4. Frequently rubbing the eyes
5. Sensitivity to light or excessive tear production
6. Shutting one eye to see better
7. Avoiding up-close activities, such as reading, homework; or vice versa, avoiding activities using distance vision like sports
8. Complaining about headaches or tired eyes
9. Eyes appearing blood shot or vacant
10. Receiving lower grades than usual or not paying attention in school
Discomfort or fatigue while utilizing the eyes may negatively affect the child’s grades and ability to learn. Comprehension or efficiency may decrease, or activities that were once appealing to a child may no longer be. The child may be under stress trying to read or write, or play sports. They may even be wrongly diagnosed with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). A visit with your vision care professional may reveal the real cause of the change to be nearsightedness, farsightedness, or an astigmatism. Depending on the diagnosis, an eye care professional will be able to prescribe glasses, or even eye therapy or exercises to help the student reach their full potential.