Vision problems can impact your kid’s learning and development. That’s because vision skills such as using information gathered from sight don’t come naturally to children—they have to be acquired through stimulation. 

Compounding the problem is the fact vision problems are quite common. In fact, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, they’re the single most widespread disabling condition that affects American kids. It’s estimated that by the time American children start school, roughly 25% of them will experience some form of vision problem. 

What Are the Signs Your Child May Have Vision Problems? 

• Difficulty with reading – Kids with refractive errors may find it difficult to keep track of the paragraph they’re reading. 
• Short attention span or aversion to reading-related activities – Kids with vision problems are more likely to lose interest in reading-related activities than kids who don’t have refractive errors. 
• Tendency to turn their head to one side or read at an angle – Whenever kids turn their head to one side, they see through the opening of narrowed eyelids, which helps them see better. In this sense, turning your head to one side is similar to squinting, which is another sign your child may have vision problems. 
• Holding books or tablets too close to the face – This is usually a sign your child is nearsighted. 

If your kid exhibits any of the aforementioned tendencies, it’s highly recommended that you take them to your local eye doctor. 

How Are Vision Problems Treated? 

If your eye doctor detects refractive errors, they may prescribe eyeglasses or vision therapy. An optometric vision therapy program attempts to improve your kid’s visual comfort and change their processing and interpretation of visual information. One treatment option for myopia is orthokeratology, which involves wearing gas-permeable contacts at night to reshape the cornea. To learn more about your treatment options, consult your local eye doctor. 

Looking for optometrists near you? 

Alderwood Optical & Canyon Park Vision Clinic is an eye doctor specializing in eye health and vision correction. To schedule an appointment, call us at (425) 771-8472 or fill out this form. We serve homeowners in Redmon as well as the surrounding WA communities.