Due to the similarities, many undetected vision problems can be labeled as learning disabilities, misdiagnosing ADHD or ADD. Though your child’s school may conduct a basic eye screening this is not a substitute for a compressive eye exam.
Research estimates 80% of learning is done through the eyes. “Children with uncorrected vision conditions or eye health problems face many barriers in life … academically … socially … and athletically. High-quality eye care can break down these barriers and help enable your children to reach their highest potential,” according to the American Optometric Association (AOA).
The AOA Advise Parents to Watch Out for 17 Signs for Vision Problems
Sitting close to the TV
Squinting, compensation for poor vision
Tilting their head to one side, muscle imbalance in the eye
Frequently rubbing their eyes, sign of eye fatigue
Short attention span for the child’s age
Turning of an eye in or out, eyes not working together
Sensitivity to light
Difficulty with eye-hand-body coordination when playing ball or bike riding
Avoiding coloring activities, puzzles and other detailed activities
Avoiding reading and other close activities
Frequent headaches, caused by eye strain
Covering one eye
Holding reading materials close to the face
An eye turning in or out
Seeing double
Losing place when reading
Difficulty remembering what he or she read
For effective learning and reading children needs certain vision skills such as visual acuity, eye focusing, eye tracking, eye teaming, eye hand coordination, and visual perception. If one of these visual skills are not functioning properly a child can have a host of problems in and out of school.
Children are constantly using their eyes. When eyes are not functioning properly, learning, playing, and sports can all suffer. More than just clear vision, good eyesight allows a child to respond and understand what is seen.
Children need an eye exam at least once every two years, more if recommended by an eye doctor. A child with 20/20 vision can still have vision problems, making learning more difficult.