Child Care
Young children with vision problems don't know that things they look at are actually different from the way they see it. Vision accounts for 80% of all learning in a child's first 12 years. One in six children between the ages of 5 to 12 years has vision problems that can affect reading and learning ability.
Vision problems are treated more succesfully during the growth and development of a child's visual system. By the time a child reaches school age, the visual system is well developed. A delayed eye examination at this point in a childs growth could spell trouble.
Where Eye Care Begins
 A child's eyes are examined at birth for signs of congenital eye problems. Although eye problems at birth are relatively rare, this is important since early diagnosis can often make treatment more effective.
A childs first eye examination should take place no later than the age of three (a visual examination can be performed on a child who is too young to read or respond verbally). After the initial examination, an annual examination is important throughout their school years.
What To Watch For
Both parents and teachers can recognize possible vision problems by paying attention to the following signs:
- Squinting, closing or covering one eye; excessive blinking or rubbing of the eyes
- Dislike and/or avoidance of close work; short attention span; frequent daydreaming
- Placing the head close to a book when reading; losing place while reading
- Complaints of headaches, nausea and dizziness; excessive clumsiness
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