Vision problems in children aren’t always obvious. While some kids may squint at the board or say things look blurry, others may not realize they’re having trouble seeing.

If a child has always experienced their vision a certain way, they may not know that something looks different than it should. Instead, vision problems can sometimes show up through changes in behavior, schoolwork or everyday activities.

That’s one reason regular pediatric eye exams are important, even if your child has passed a school vision screening. School screenings can help identify certain vision concerns, but they aren’t a replacement for a comprehensive eye exam.

Vision Changes Can Show Up in  Everyday Life

Sometimes the first sign of a vision issue isn’t a child saying they can’t see. A teacher may notice that they’re sitting closer to the board, reading assignments may take longer, or a child who usually enjoys books may start avoiding them.

These behaviors don’t necessarily mean there’s a vision problem. But if they happen regularly or you notice several of them together, they’re worth mentioning to your child’s eye doctor.

Signs to Watch For

Some behaviors that may be worth mentioning to your child’s eye doctor include:

• Sitting unusually close to the TV or holding devices close to their face
• Frequent headaches, especially after school or homework
• Losing their place while reading
• Squinting or closing one eye to see
• Consistently tilting their head to one side
• Frequently rubbing their eyes
• Avoiding reading, drawing or other close-up activities

Any one of these behaviors can have causes unrelated to vision. What matters is whether you’re noticing a pattern or a change from what’s typical for your child.

What a Pediatric Eye Exam Can Check

A comprehensive pediatric eye exam can evaluate things that aren’t always captured during a basic vision screening. Your eye doctor can check how clearly your child sees, how well their eyes work together, how they focus and the overall health and development of their eyes.

Many of these things can be evaluated without relying on a child to explain exactly what they’re experiencing. This can be especially helpful for younger children who may not have the words to describe changes in their vision.

When to Schedule an Eye Exam

If you, your child’s teacher or another caregiver has noticed changes in how your child reads, focuses or uses their vision, consider scheduling a comprehensive eye exam.

An exam can help determine whether vision is contributing to what you’re noticing and give you a better understanding of your child’s eye health.

Have questions about your child’s vision? Schedule a pediatric eye exam with St. Paul Eye Clinic.