How To Know if Your Child Needs Glasses?

Did you know 1 in 4 kids has an undiagnosed vision problem?  It might be an eye issue if you’ve been wondering whether your child’s constant squinting is typical or why they’re struggling to read the board at school.  

 

Vision problems in children, toddlers, and teenagers can go unnoticed. Younger children might not realize blurry vision isn’t normal, and teens might chalk up headaches to stress or screen time. Here’s the thing: most vision problems in kids are simple to treat if you catch them early. 

 

In this blog, we’ll cover signs that your child needs glasses and how you can choose the right glasses for teenagers and kids. Let’s get started! 

 

Signs Your Toddler or Baby May Need Glasses

If you think eyesight issues develop as kids get older, you’d be surprised at how early some children show signs of needing glasses. According to the American Public Health Association, about 10% of preschoolers have eye or vision problems. 

 

Early eyesight issues can be subtle, but they tend to show up in ways that affect a child’s everyday activities. Here are some ​​signs that a toddler needs glasses:

 

1. Squinting or Rubbing Eyes Frequently: If your child is constantly rubbing their eyes or squinting to focus on things, that’s their way of telling you they’re struggling with their vision.
2. Lack of Focus or Trouble Tracking Objects: Toddlers should be able to track moving objects with their eyes. If they’re having trouble following toys or people, their eyesight might be compromised.
3. Tilting Their Head to See Better: Sometimes, these aren’t just cute acts. They can signal vision issues. If your child tilts or squints to focus, it’s time for a check-up.
4. Delayed Development of Hand-Eye Coordination: One of the earliest signs that a baby needs glasses is struggling with activities that require visual coordination, like building blocks or grabbing things. These activities rely heavily on the eyes working together and sending clear signals to the brain.

 

Is Your Teenager’s Eyesight Getting Worse?

As teenagers grow, their vision can change quickly, and sometimes, they may not even notice. Common signs like squinting, headaches, or difficulty reading the board in class can point to the need for a vision test. These issues are often brushed off, but as a parent, it’s important to pay attention to these subtle clues. Here are some signs you should watch out for:

 

1. Blurry Board in Class: If your teen struggles to read the board or complains that things look blurry, take note! Struggling to see things at a distance is often the first sign of nearsightedness (myopia).
2. Difficulty Reading Small Print: Similarly, if your teen suddenly starts holding their book or phone farther away, it might be a sign of farsightedness (hyperopia), where objects up close seem blurry.
3. Frequent Headaches or Eye Strain: Between social media, homework, and late-night Netflix binges, your teen's eyes are probably clocking in over time. If they’re complaining of headaches or eye discomfort, it might be more than just screen fatigue; unaddressed vision problems could be at play.

 

Tips for Parents to Spot Vision Issues Early

Stay vigilant, parents! It’s easy to miss subtle signs of vision problems, but these simple tips will help you catch them early. While a professional vision test is non-negotiable, here are some ways to keep an eye on your little one’s vision at home:

 

1. Struggling with Reading or Schoolwork:  If reading has turned from fun to frustrating, poor vision might be the culprit. For older kids, trouble keeping up with schoolwork or skipping lines when reading are key warning signs.
2. Complaints About Headaches or Tired Eyes: Long hours of homework and screen time may leave your child complaining about headaches or exhaustion. However, if this happens regularly, it’s probably a vision issue.
3. Quick At-Home Vision Checks: For toddlers, hold a toy or brightly colored object at varying distances and observe how they react. For older kids and teens, ask them to read something from a reasonable distance. If you notice squinting, it’s time for a professional check-up.

 

These three simple steps can help identify potential issues, but they’re not a substitute for an eye exam. Always consult an eye doctor to confirm and address any vision concerns. And you don’t have to wait for these signs to schedule a vision test. They must be a part of your child’s regular check-up routine.

 

When Should You Get a Vision Test for Your Child?

Let’s face it—kids aren’t exactly experts at communicating when something’s off with their vision. That’s why staying ahead with regular eye exams is crucial. Plus, prescription validity does not stick around for a lifetime. 

 

Your child’s age affects how frequently they must get their vision rechecked. Regular eye exams can help detect potential issues before they become more serious. Here’s a handy guide to when you should get their vision checked:

 

Babies & Toddlers

Your little one’s first eye exam should ideally happen around their first birthday. It’s a simple check to ensure their eyes develop as they should and catch any early signs of issues. But if you notice them rubbing their eyes, tilting their head, or showing other signs that your child needs glasses,  don’t hesitate to book an appointment sooner.

 

Preschoolers

This is when vision problems start developing in many kids. Before they head off to kindergarten, make sure they have a thorough eye exam. Preschoolers rely heavily on their vision for learning, and undetected issues can sneak in and affect their development.

 

Teenagers

Teens live in a world filled with screens; schoolwork, gaming, social media, you name it. Their eyes are working all the time, and issues like eye strain or blurry vision are more common than you’d think. Experts recommend eye exams every couple of years for teens, but if they’re squinting or complaining about headaches, don’t wait. 

Once you’ve received a doctor’s eye prescription slip, make sure you don't delay getting the best prescription glasses for your child. 

 

Find the Right Glasses for Your Kids and Teens

Okay, so you’ve spotted the signs, and it’s time to get your child glasses. Now what? The good news is that finding the right pair isn’t as hard as it sounds. Here’s a quick rundown of what you need to know:

 

• Regular Prescription Glasses: For kids who need everyday vision correction, these glasses provide clarity for school, play, and everything in between.
• Prescription Sports Glasses: If your kid is into sports, prescription sports glasses are a must. They’re designed to stay put and protect your child’s eyes while they’re active, whether they’re playing soccer or riding their bike.
• Kids Blue Light Reading Glasses: With all the screen time kids get these days, blue light glasses are a game-changer. They are great for reading, gaming, or studying. Even if your child does not have powered vision, it is a good idea to get them a pair of reading glasses to help reduce eye fatigue in kids. 

 

Keep an Eye on Your Child’s Vision

If you’ve noticed any of these signs in your child or teen, it’s time to get their vision checked. Early detection and the right glasses for kids can turn these struggles into confidence and joy. 

 

So, why wait? From fun, sturdy glasses for toddlers to chic, practical eyewear for teens, Sporteyes has something for everyone. Schedule a vision check-up and browse through our kid-friendly glasses today.