AYN Advice

How do I know if my child has good vision?

DOES MY CHILD HAVE GOOD VISION?

With the start of a new school year, numerous preparations may be necessary in order to re-assure yourself that your child starts the year on the right track. Now is the ideal time to question yourself on your child's vision.

Here is a quiz prepared by the optometrists of the OPTIKA Eye Care Center.

  1. Does your child read at a very close distance?
  2. Does your child often have red eyes?
  3. Does your child often have itchy, teary or burning eyes?
  4. Does your child squint to see far?
  5. Does your child blink or often rub his eyes?
  6. Is your child cross-eyed?
  7. Does your child cover one eye to see better?
  8. Does your child often complain of headaches?
  9. Does your child experience difficulty concentrating?
  10. Does your child have a learning disability?

If you have answered yes to one or more of these questions it would be important to thouroughly evaluate his vision. Other subtle symptoms such as : problems reading, a child who skips lines or reverses letters may also indicate the presence of a visual problem. Nervertheless, the absence of symptoms is no guarantee of a good vision. In fact, the presence of a lazy eye, poor co-ordination between both eyes, farsightedness or astigmatism does not significantly reduce the visual acuity and are difficult to detect without a complete visual exam.

A visual problem may in fact have important repercussions on the academic success of a child if we consider that 80% of knowledge acquired by a child depends on his vision.

The optometrists may use for young children, diagnostic drops (cycloplegics) and objective methods of evaluation which do not require the knowledge of letters. The American Association of Optometry recommends a first visual exam at the age of 3 in order to re-assure oneself of normal visual development. It is important to note that when a visual reeducation treatment is initiated at a younger age, the better the chance of it being successful, therefore, if you have any doubts do not hesitate to consult even if your child is under the age of 3.

There are different ways to correct ocular vision. Although prescription glasses are most often used to correct a visual problem, certain exercises could be necessary (occlusion of an eye, practicing co-ordination of both eyes).

The professionals at Optika Eye Care Center can inform you on visual hygiene of your child as well as reducing visual stress. Consulting your optometrist before starting a new school year will re-assure you that your child will see better to learn better.