Good vision plays an essential role in your child’s development. 1 in 5 Australian children have vision problems and it is estimated that 10% of children have undetected vision problems that can lead to learning and behavioural issues.
How can you detect that your child is having difficulties with their sight?
It is important to recognize the signs that indicate your child may have vision problems:
- Frequent eye rubbing
- Tilting/moving their head when looking at something
- Frequent blinking
- Complaints of blurry or double vision
- Red or watery eyes
- Squinting
- Headaches
- Slower learning abilities
- Difficulty reading
- Turned eye
When should children have their eyes tested?
Early detection of vision issues ensures your child’s full potential to learn, therefore, a routine eye examination before beginning school is recommended by optometrists. However, children that show signs of vision problems should present earlier.
Impact of screens.
Myopia (short-sightedness) is the most common eye problem evident in children who spend a lot of time on screens. It makes seeing in the distance difficult, notably the board at school.
Ways in which you can help prevent myopia include:
Spending time outdoors – it is recommended that children spend at least 2 hours per day outside. Time outdoors has been shown to assist in slowing the progression of myopia.
Incorporate breaks into screen time/near work – use the 20/20/20 rule. Focus on something 20 feet away for 20 seconds every 20 minutes.
Adopt a Harmon working distance – don’t hold books or devices too close to the eyes. It is ideal to hold these at a closed fist to elbow distance.
Schedule an eye test
Eye tests are painless and ensure your child does not have any undetected vision problems that can impact their learning.
At Yarra Junction Optical we bulk bill all examinations.
To book an appointment online click here.