It is crucial for a child's growth and development to have good eyesight. Children use their vision to learn, play, and get around their environment. Unfortunately, many have vision issues that can affect their overall health and quality of life. 
 

Parents should be alert to the warning signs that their child might require prescription glasses. Early detection and treatment are necessary to prevent undiagnosed vision issues from affecting your child's vision. Six red flags that might mean your little one needs glasses include the following:

Squinting

If your child squints a lot, it could mean they are having trouble seeing clearly. Squinting makes it simpler to see in bright conditions by reducing the amount of light entering the eye. Your child may require prescription eyeglasses to correct their vision. 

A Significant Decline in Academic Performance

This problem may indicate that your little one needs prescription eyeglasses. Kids with vision issues may have trouble reading their textbooks or seeing the blackboard, making it challenging to keep up in class. Poor academic performance and trouble concentrating in class may indicate untreated vision issues.

Headaches

Regular headaches are signs of eyestrain, which can stem from several vision issues. It may be time to take your child in for an eye exam if they frequently complain of headaches, particularly after reading, watching TV, or using a computer. 
 

Numerous things, such as inadequate lighting, too much screen time, and untreated vision issues, can lead to eyestrain. As their eyes have to work harder than necessary to see clearly, kids with vision problems may experience eyestrain and headaches.

Holding Things Close to the Face

Does your child hold things close to his/her face while playing games, watching TV, or reading? If so, this could indicate that your child is having trouble seeing. Nearsighted children frequently exhibit this behavior. They may hold items close to their faces to see them more clearly because doing so improves their ability to focus. 

Avoiding Specific Activities

Does your little one avoid specific visual activities, like reading or playing video games? It could indicate that they are having vision problems. Children who have trouble seeing clearly avoid activities that require them to use their eyes for long periods. 
 

Those who no longer enjoy activities may be doing so because they have vision problems. This can affect their quality of life and general well-being.

Eye Rubbing

When children rub their eyes a lot, it could indicate they are having trouble seeing or are uncomfortable. Many vision issues, such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism, can contribute to eyestrain. It may be time to take your child for an eye exam if they frequently rub their eyes. 

Conclusion

These are the six warning signs that your child might require prescription eyewear. It is crucial to take your child for an eye exam as soon as you think they have a vision issue. An optometrist can assess your child's vision and determine whether they require prescription glasses to see clearly.
 

For more on corrective eyewear, visit Advanced Eyecare Central Coast at our office in Pismo Beach, California. Call (805) 773-6000 to book an appointment today.