Does my child need glasses?

Children may not even realize that their vision is blurry so the question of whether or not they need glasses is a tricky subject. There are specific behaviors your child may be unconsciously exhibiting which are indicators it could be time to see the optometrist.

Does my child need glasses? Here is a list of symptoms that could answer that question.

• Squinting: This is a reflex that we may not even realize we are doing it. If you notice your child instinctively squinting while doing homework or watching the television, it may be time for an eye exam.
• Closing One Eye: Poor eyesight may cause double vision, and dizziness and your child may begin closing one eye while focusing. Doing this is a defense mechanism the body will create to combat vertigo, and serve to correct the vision.
• Eye Rubbing: If your notice your child rubbing her eyes while indoors, concentrating on simple tasks like coloring, watching tv, or playing with playdoh, you may be able to rule out allergies and consider her vision may be blurry. Rubbing of the eyes offers momentary relief of blurry vision.
• Sitting Close to the TV: Many kids habitually sit close to the television. If your child is experiencing blurred vision, he may be creeping closer and closer. You may need to consider it could be something more than just normal behaviors.
• Frequent Headaches: Has your child been complaining of headaches a lot recently? The strain of overconcentrating due to blurred vision may be the culprit. A visit to the optometrist is a good place to start when trying to figure this mystery out.
• Excessive Tearing: If your child does not suffer from allergies, and you notice her eyes have been watery, this excessive tearing could be a reaction to blurred vision.
• Finger Pointing When Reading: Does your child drag his finger along the page as he is reading? Blurry vision may be causing him to lose his place. It is beneficial that your child has instinctively made this adjustment, but it could be a signal that something is amiss.
• Light Sensitivity: On a bright sunny day, we all may experience light sensitivity, but if your child is squinting under ordinary circumstances, it may be due to poor vision.
• Bumping into Things: Children have a tendency to seem clumsy by nature, and trip or bump into things occasionally. However if your child is always bumping into things, it could be because he cannot see clearly.

If you have any questions or concerns about your child’s vision, contact Looking Glass Optical for more information. Our friendly and knowledgeable staff can offer suggestions and, if necessary, make an appointment for your child.