When To Take Your Child To The Optometrist
You may not think you need to take your child to the optometrist, but young children need to have their eyes checked as well. Children don't know that their vision is blurry, especially if their vision has always been blurry. If you aren't sure when to get your child's eyes tested, read on for tips to help guide you.
How Old Is Your Child?
Your child should have an eye exam before they are a year old. You can talk to your pediatrician about exactly when you should have their eyes tested, but anywhere from 9 months to a year is a good time to have your child's eyes tested the first time. After this test, you should also have your child's eyes tested once they start school, unless otherwise instructed by your optometrist.
Do You Notice Any Eye Issues?
If you notice any eye issues with your child's eyes such as one eye turning in or out, or if your child has a lazy eye it's important to have your child's eyes checked. Sometimes this type of issue can be corrected with eyeglasses, but without corrective lenses it may require surgery later down the road. If you spot any issues with your child's eyes that you aren't sure about, then it's important to get your child's eyes examined.
Is Your Child Squinting?
If your child squints or sits closely to the television or to any screen in an effort to see clearly, you need to take your child to the optometrist for an exam. Allowing the squinting to continue could potentially cause your child's vision to worsen. Give your child an eye exam and if corrective lenses are required, be sure to get your child the lenses required so your child can see clearly.
Is Your Child Complaining Of Headaches?
Children can get headaches much like an adult, but if your child is getting headaches often, especially school-aged children, it may be due to vision issues. Your child may be having a difficult time seeing in class and it could be causing these headaches. Get your child to the optometrist for an eye exam to either rule out vision issues, or to correct them.
Is Your Child's Grades Going Down?
If your child is usually an A student and is suddenly getting worsening grades, it may be due to vision problems. If your child is unable to see in class, it could weigh on their grades. It can also cause an issue with being able to focus properly in class as well, which can also result in worsening grades.
If you aren't sure when to have your child's eyes examined, talk to your pediatrician. If you're in doubt at all, make an appointment for your child at the optometrist office and get your child an eye exam.