According to the American Optometric Association (AOA), “Vision loss occurs when light rays cannot pass through the eye and reach the retina.” Most people do not realize that they have lost vision until it is too late. Especially in developing children, watching the development of their vision closely is key to helping them succeed in school and in life.
Children develop rapidly during the preschool years. Many begin to read around age 4 and write around age 7.
By age 8, most children have mastered basic skills such as counting, identifying colors, shapes, numbers, letters and words. In addition, they are beginning to understand cause and effect. Children are learning how to think critically and solve problems.
Entering grade school, children experience many academic subjects including math, science, social studies, language arts, art and music. At this stage, children are also developing self-discipline and responsibility. They must learn to manage their time effectively, set goals and follow through with projects and assignments.
As they enter middle school, children become increasingly independent learners. They are responsible for completing projects, preparing for tests and participating in classwork. Teachers expect students to take initiative and make decisions about what needs to be done next. Students are often given greater freedom to choose their own activities. This independence requires good judgment and decision making.
In high school, students continue to expand their knowledge base. They study advanced courses in mathematics, science, foreign languages, history, literature and geography. They also participate in extracurricular activities such as band, chorus, drama and student council. High school students are expected to complete college entrance exams and pursue postsecondary education.
During adolescence, children continue to grow physically and mentally. Their bodies change dramatically as they mature. Girls usually reach full adult height by age 16 and boys by age 17. During puberty, girls experience changes in body shape and facial features. Boys’ voices deepen and their muscles increase in strength.
The brain continues to develop throughout childhood and into young adulthood. New neurons are produced continuously in the hippocampus, where memories are formed. These cells help to form connections between different parts of the brain.
All of the above are key learning and development activities in children. Make sure you stay informed of signs of eye and vision problems in children and teens by reading this article.
Also, if you need assistance, please contact one of our EyeCare4Kids medical clinics in Utah, Nevada, Arizona, and New Jersey.
