How Can Parents Spot Vision Problems in Children?

Little girl wearing glasses beacause her mom caught her vision problems early with Mountain Brook Eye Care

Seeing the World Through Their Eyes

Every parent wants their child to thrive, but what if something as simple as blurry vision is holding them back? Undiagnosed vision problems can affect a child’s ability to learn, engage with others, and confidently explore the world. Since children often don’t realize they’re seeing differently than others, it’s up to parents to recognize the early warning signs.

At Mountain Brook Eye Care, Dr. Jeremy Edgerly and his team specialize in pediatric eye health, helping children achieve clear vision and optimal development. Here’s what every parent should know about spotting vision problems early.

This Article Will Address:

Common signs of vision problems in children
How to recognize vision issues in infants
The most common eye problems affecting kids
When to schedule your child’s first eye exam
Tips for maintaining your child’s eye health
How Mountain Brook Eye Care can help

Common Signs of Vision Problems in Children

Early detection is key to preventing long-term vision issues. If you notice any of the following behaviors, it may be time for a comprehensive eye exam:

Frequent squinting or blinking
Holding books or screens too close
Complaints of blurry or double vision
Frequent headaches or eye strain
Covering one eye while reading or watching TV
Trouble focusing in school or difficulty following objects
Rubbing eyes excessively (not due to allergies)
Poor hand-eye coordination or clumsiness

If your child displays one or more of these signs, scheduling a pediatric eye exam can provide clarity on whether corrective lenses or other treatments are needed.

What Are the Signs of Vision Problems in Infants?

Babies rely on their eyesight to explore and learn, but when vision issues arise early, they can delay development. Parents should watch for these red flags:

Lack of eye contact or difficulty tracking moving objects
Excessive eye rubbing
Misaligned eyes (crossed eyes or one eye drifting)
Sensitivity to light
Delayed development in visual skills

If your baby isn’t following objects by three months or struggles to focus, it’s time for a pediatric eye exam. Early intervention is crucial in preventing more serious vision problems down the road.

What Are Common Eye Problems in Children?

Several eye conditions can affect kids, often without them realizing it. Here are some of the most common:

Nearsightedness (Myopia): Difficulty seeing faraway objects clearly.
Farsightedness (Hyperopia): Trouble focusing on nearby objects.
Astigmatism: Blurred or distorted vision caused by an irregularly shaped cornea.
Amblyopia (Lazy Eye): A weaker eye that, if left untreated, can lead to long-term vision impairment.
Strabismus (Crossed Eyes): Misaligned eyes that can cause depth perception issues.

Regular eye exams can catch these conditions early, making treatment more effective and improving long-term vision outcomes.

At What Age Should My Child Have Their First Eye Exam?

Vision care should start early to ensure healthy eye development. Here’s when to schedule key checkups:

Newborns: Basic eye screening at birth
6 months: Pediatric optometry check to assess early eye development
3-5 years: Comprehensive eye exam before starting school
5+ years: Annual or biannual exams based on individual vision needs

Children’s eyes change rapidly as they grow. Regular exams ensure they don’t fall behind in school or struggle with daily activities due to undiagnosed vision issues.

How Parents Can Support Their Child’s Vision Health

Good eye care goes beyond routine exams. Parents can take simple steps to protect and improve their child’s vision:

Limit screen time and encourage outdoor play to reduce digital eye strain.
Ensure proper lighting when reading or studying to prevent eye fatigue.
Provide a nutrient-rich diet.
Watch for signs of eye strain and schedule check-ups if vision concerns arise.

Set a limit each day to mitigate the effects of digital devices. Encourage breaks from screens, if it is difficult to set limits. Use the 20-20-20 rule—every 20 minutes, have your child look 20 feet away for 20 seconds to reduce eye strain.

Schedule a Pediatric Eye Exam at Mountain Brook Eye Care

At Mountain Brook Eye Care, we believe clear vision is essential for every child’s success. Our team, led by Dr. Jeremy Edgerly, specializes in pediatric eye care and uses cutting-edge technology like Optos Monaco and Neurolens to provide the best possible eye health solutions for young patients.

If you suspect your child may be experiencing vision problems, don’t wait—early detection makes all the difference. Call us today to schedule an appointment or visit our website to book online. Give your child the gift of clear vision with care from Mountain Brook Eye Care.

Sources:

Dr. Jeremy Edgerly

Dr. Edgerly has been actively practicing optometry since 2012 in a family practice setting. He is confident in his ability to accurately diagnose, treat and manage conditions of the eye and local structures. He attended the University of Alabama at Birmingham and earned a Bachelor of Science. Upon completing his undergraduate studies, he enrolled in the UAB School of Optometry, where he earned a Doctorate in Optometry. There, he received specialized training in ocular diseases, contact lenses, pediatrics, and refractive and cataract surgery co-management.