Proper eyesight is crucial for a child and ensures they hit all their developmental milestones. Pediatricians conduct regular, brief vision screenings for children. However, these are not a substitute for a thorough eye examination by a pediatric eye doctor.

Eye exams will not only detect vision problems but will also check different vision skills that a child needs for development. They will check if there are issues with the eyes and the general body.

Signs Showing Your Child Needs an Eye Exam

Eye problems in children are not always obvious. They may present as headaches or eye fatigue. Most times, children find it hard to communicate these symptoms. However, any eye problem needs the intervention of a pediatric eye doctor. So, you should be on the lookout. What are some signs you should note?

Rubbing Eyes

Children rub their eyes when it is close to bedtime. They normally do not behave like this during the day unless they have allergies. When you notice this behavior, take them for an eye exam. Do this, especially if there are no medical problems or any other issues that may cause itching and dryness of the eyes.

Squinting and Blinking

Squinting and blinking may be due to light sensitivity. The actions reduce the amount of light entering the eye. They also momentarily improve vision by changing the shape of the eye. If you notice that your child is squinting or blinking often, take them for an eye exam.

Minimal Eye Contact

Minimal eye contact could be an indicator of focusing problems. The eyes may not be pointing in the same direction. So, the child must strain and overcompensate for their brain to have the same image. Otherwise, they may have double or blurry vision. Even if the occurrence is only occasional, take your child for an eye exam.

Delayed Motor Development

Vision skills help your child develop their motor skills. If there is a problem with their vision, they may not see distant objects or have great depth perception. Their eye movements may also not be accurate, affecting their ability to walk or play sports.

Children may have issues with hand-eye coordination or judging distance. They may bump into people, miss catches, or trip. If you notice any of these issues, it may be time for an eye exam.

Difficulty Reading

If your child has difficulty reading, they may do the following:
 

• Muddle their words

• Lose interest in reading

• Skip lines or re-read them

• Read at an uneven pace

Letters or words may seem too close to each other and blurry, making them difficult to recognize. If you notice any of these signs, take note and schedule an eye exam.

Frequent Headaches

Sight issues cause brow aches and frontal headaches. The headaches result from compensating for blurry vision by exerting your eye muscles. When your child complains of frequent headaches, make sure you schedule an appointment with an eye doctor.

A Drop in Overall School Performance

All the above symptoms may result in a drop in school performance. The child may also not want to participate in activities and prefer to sit out instead. Be careful and note these symptoms. When you do, do not hesitate to contact an eye doctor.

For more information on eye exams for children, visit Graham Eye Care at our office in Graham, Texas. You can also call (940) 549-1800 today to schedule an appointment.