What Are the Signs That My Child Might Have a Vision Problem?

Good vision is essential for your child’s growth, development, and success in school. Yet, many children with vision problems go undiagnosed because they may not realize they are seeing the world differently from others. At Eye Clinics of Seattle, we believe that early detection is key to ensuring your child enjoys clear, comfortable vision for years to come.

Common Vision Problems in Children

Children can experience a range of vision issues that may impact their learning, behavior, and quality of life. Some of the most common pediatric eye conditions include:

• Myopia (nearsightedness): Difficulty seeing distant objects clearly

• Hyperopia (farsightedness): Trouble focusing on close-up objects

• Astigmatism: Blurred or distorted vision at all distances due to an irregularly shaped cornea

• Strabismus (crossed eyes): Misalignment of the eyes that can affect depth perception

• Amblyopia (lazy eye): Reduced vision in one eye that has not developed properly

• Convergence insufficiency: Difficulty focusing on near tasks like reading or writing
   

Left untreated, these conditions can interfere with reading, learning, sports, and even social development.
 

Recognizing the Signs of a Vision Problem

Children do not always complain about vision problems, so it is important to look for signs that may suggest an issue. Some indicators include:

• Squinting or closing one eye to see better

• Holding books or screens very close

• Frequent headaches or eye strain

• Excessive rubbing of the eyes

• Avoiding tasks that require visual focus, like reading or puzzles

• Losing place while reading or using a finger to track words

• Complaints of double vision or blurred vision

• Clumsiness or difficulty with hand-eye coordination
   

If any of these signs are present, it is important to schedule a pediatric eye exam.
 

Why Pediatric Eye Exams Are Essential

Regular pediatric eye exams are essential for detecting vision issues early, even before symptoms appear. Comprehensive eye exams can identify refractive errors and functional vision issues that basic vision screenings may miss. Early intervention can help prevent long-term vision complications and support your child’s academic and developmental success.
 

For children diagnosed with myopia, early treatment is especially important. Myopia management options, such as orthokeratology lenses, multifocal contacts, or low dose atropine eye drops, can slow the progression of nearsightedness and reduce the risk of serious eye diseases later in life.
 

Schedule Your Child’s Eye Exam Today 

Your child’s vision plays a vital role in how they experience the world. If you suspect a problem or it has been over a year since their last exam, it is time to take action. By being proactive and scheduling regular pediatric eye exams, you can help protect your child’s eyesight and ensure they thrive in every stage of development.
 

Schedule your child’s eye exam at Eye Clinics of Seattle and give them the clear vision for a bright future. Contact our offices in Seattle, Washington, located in Queen Anne, Ballard, or Roosevelt, by calling (206) 282-8120 to book an appointment today.