Arkansas Democrat-Gazette

vision troubles

Warning signs of childhood

- — Courtesy of Metro Creative

Adults know when they are beginning to experience trouble with their vision. In such instances, men and women will book appointmen­ts with their eye doctors to determine what’s causing their problems. But whether it’s a fear of eyeglasses or simply feeling like their symptoms are normal, kids might be hesitant to tell their parents about any vision problems they’re having. As a result, parents must learn to recognize certain warning signs that indicate their children are experienci­ng vision problems.

Vision problems in youngsters can be especially problemati­c, as many of the lessons kids learn in school still begin on a chalkboard. The following are some potential indicators that kids might be dealing with vision problems that require medical attention.

Reading habits

Vision problems may be most noticeable when kids are reading. As youngsters learn to read, they might use their fingers to keep their place while they figure out the pronunciat­ion of certain words. But kids eventually grow out of that habit. Kids who are still doing that so long after they have learned to read may be having trouble seeing words on the page.

Viewing habits

Peculiar viewing habits may also be indicative of poor vision. Kids who sit too close to the television may be struggling to see as opposed to being excited to see their favorite shows. Kids who prefer to watch programs on hand-held tablets as opposed to television­s may also make that choice because it’s easier for them to see on their tablets than on the television. In such instances, ask why they prefer tablets to television. When kids watch TV, ask them to move farther away from the television. If they complain that moving back makes it hard to see, book an appointmen­t with an eye doctor.

Squinting

Kids who squint a lot may be finding it difficult to focus on words on a chalkboard or even television programs. Squinting may also be brought on by a corneal abrasion. Parents who notice their youngsters are squinting should consult the child’s eye doctor to determine the cause of the problem.

Vision problems can be especially harmful to children, who rely on their vision to perform schoolwork. Parents who learn to recognize the various warning signs of vision troubles can nip problems in the bud before they have too great an impact on youngsters..

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