Common Vision Problems in Children: How to Recognize the Signs

As children grow, their vision plays a crucial role in their development and learning. Unfortunately, common vision problems can often go unnoticed, as kids may not realize that what they're seeing isn’t quite right. At Fresh Pond Eye Care, we believe early detection is essential in addressing these issues, as timely intervention can make a significant difference. Here, we’ll walk you through some common vision problems in children and share tips on recognizing the signs.
 

Myopia

Myopia, or nearsightedness, is a condition where distant objects appear blurry. This issue has become more prevalent in recent years, especially as children spend more time using digital devices. A child with myopia might:
 

• Squint or close one eye to see distant objects clearly.
   

• Complain of headaches or eye strain, especially after school.
   

• Prefer sitting close to the television or at the front of the classroom.
   

Hyperopia

Hyperopia, or farsightedness, is the opposite of myopia, where close objects appear blurry while distant ones remain clear. Mild cases may go unnoticed, but severe hyperopia can lead to difficulties in reading and other close-up tasks. Symptoms include:
 

• Frequent eye rubbing or blinking.
   

• Complaints of tired eyes or discomfort after reading.
   

• Difficulty with fine motor skills, like drawing or writing.
   

Astigmatism

Astigmatism occurs when the eye’s curvature is irregular, leading to blurry or distorted vision at any distance. In children, untreated astigmatism can impact reading and overall visual development. Watch for:
 

• Frequent squinting or tilting the head.
   

• Complaints of double vision.
   

• Difficulty with tasks that require clear, focused vision.
   

Strabismus

Strabismus, commonly known as crossed eyes, is when the eyes are misaligned and don’t work together. If left untreated, it can lead to amblyopia, also known as lazy eye. Signs include:
 

• Noticeable misalignment of one or both eyes.
   

• Trouble focusing or following objects.
   

• Complaints of seeing double.
   

Amblyopia

Amblyopia, or lazy eye, occurs when one eye develops better vision than the other. This can happen due to strabismus, differences in refractive errors, or other eye issues. If left untreated, it can lead to permanent vision loss in the affected eye. Watch for:
 

• Poor depth perception.
   

• Complaints of blurry vision in one eye.
   

• Difficulty judging distances.
   

How to Help Your Child’s Vision

Being vigilant and proactive is essential for supporting your child’s vision and overall development. One of the most impactful ways to maintain your child’s eye health is by scheduling regular eye exams. Experts recommend that children have their first eye exam by age one, with additional check-ups at age three and again before starting school. These regular visits help detect and address any vision problems early, ensuring that any issues are managed before they affect learning and growth.
 

Another important way to support healthy vision is by encouraging outdoor play. Spending time outdoors has been shown to benefit eye health, as it can reduce the risk of myopia (nearsightedness) and provides a welcome break from prolonged screen time. Fresh air and natural light contribute positively to eye development and help balance the strain of close-up tasks and screen use.
 

Limiting screen time is also crucial in protecting your child’s vision. Extended periods spent staring at screens can lead to eye strain and increase the risk of myopia. To combat this, try implementing the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, encourage your child to look at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds. This small habit can make a big difference in reducing eye strain and maintaining healthy vision in the long run.
 

Book Your Child’s Eye Exam with Fresh Pond Eye Care Today

If you notice any of these signs in your child, scheduling an eye exam is the best way to ensure they get the care they need. At Fresh Pond Eye Care, we specialize in pediatric eye care and offer comprehensive exams tailored to children’s needs.
 

Reach out to Fresh Pond Eye Care to schedule a pediatric eye exam and set your child on the path to better vision and a brighter future. Contact our office in Ridgewood, New York, by calling (646) 481-8579 or Click here to get in touch with us.