Did you know that approximately 25% of school-aged children in the United States wear eyeglasses or contact lenses to correct refractive errors such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism?
Ensuring proper vision care for children is crucial for their academic and social development. Here are steps parents can take to help their children test their eyesight:
Steps for Testing Children’s Eyesight
- Schedule Regular Eye Exams:
- First Eye Exam: It’s recommended to have a child’s first comprehensive eye exam at 6 months of age.
- Follow-up Exams: The next exam should be at age 3, and again before starting school. After that, eye exams should be scheduled every one to two years, or as recommended by the eye doctor.
- Observe for Signs of Vision Problems:
- Behavioral Signs: Squinting, sitting too close to the TV, difficulty reading, frequent eye rubbing, and complaints of headaches or eye strain.
- Academic Signs: Trouble seeing the board, declining grades, or losing place while reading.
- Use Home Vision Screening Tools:
- Online Tests: Some websites offer printable eye charts and simple vision screening tools.
- Apps: There are mobile applications designed for basic vision screening.
- Promote Good Eye Health Habits:
- Limit Screen Time: Encourage breaks during prolonged screen use.
- Healthy Diet: Include foods rich in vitamins A, C, and E, as well as omega-3 fatty acids.
- Protective Eyewear: Ensure children wear sunglasses with UV protection when outdoors and appropriate protective eyewear during sports.
- Visit an Eye Care Professional:
- If any issues are suspected, it’s essential to see an optometrist or ophthalmologist for a comprehensive eye examination.
By taking these steps, parents can help ensure their children maintain healthy vision and address any potential issues early on.
NOTE: The information provided here is for general educational purposes only. It is inherently limited and should not be solely relied upon. Always seek the advice of a medical professional for any medical questions or concerns. The content of this blog post does not create a patient-physician relationship and is not intended as medical or patient advice. Consult a doctor for answers to all medical matters.
Contact EyeCare4Kids for more information:
- EMAIL ADDRESS: info@eyecare4kids.org
- CALL US: Global Headquarters: (801) 285-5443
- VISIT US: Global Headquarters: 6911 State St. Midvale, UT 84047