Did you know there is an estimated one million children with an undiagnosed vision problem?
Good eyesight is crucial in making sure a child develops to their full potential both at school and socially. It’s especially important to look after children’s eyes – the eye is still developing throughout early childhood so if problems are treated early, it can make a lasting difference. Yet research shows that around 20% of school-aged children have an undiagnosed vision problem. It’s never too early to have a sight test, visiting an optometrist will mean you can spot and manage vision problems that may affect your child’s development.
How do I know if my child has an eye problem?
Some eye conditions do not display any signs or symptoms, so the only way to know for sure is to take your child for a sight test. Signs which may show there is a problem with a child’s sight include:
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An eye appearing to drift inwards or outwards
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Difficulty concentrating
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Behavioural problems
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Headaches
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Sitting too close to the television
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Frequent eye rubbing
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Symptoms of a vision problem
This could mean your child needs glasses or that they have an eye that is healthy but does not see as well, otherwise known as a ‘lazy eye’. The condition can run in the family, so if a relative has either an eye turn (squint) or suffers from reduced vision in one or both eyes (amblyopia), it’s a good idea to take any related children for a sight test.
When should my child visit the optometrist?
We recommend that children have a sight test around the age of three, so that conditions are picked up and treated early.
What else can I do to look after my child’s eyes?
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Get them outdoors – regular play and exercise can help with eye health. Studies show two hours of outdoor activity a day is ideal for healthy eyes
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Make sure they eat healthily and drink enough fluids
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Protect their eyes from the sun – never let them look directly into the sun and make sure they always wear good-quality sunglasses with the ‘CE’ quality mark and the British Standard BS EN 1836:2005
To book your child in for an eye examination call Clear View Opticians, 169 Burton Road, Lincoln, LN13LW 01522542121 or email enquiries@clearviewopticians.co.uk
