ABC's of Eyecare

About 80% of learning in a child's first 12 years is through the eyes. Good vision is fundamental to reading. It is also vital to seeing such learning tools as the chalkboard, visual aids and videos. Unfortunately, some children are labeled "learning disabled" or "trouble-makers," when all they need is an eye exam and appropriate vision correction. In short, good vision is as essential to learning as the ABC's.

According to the American Foundation for Vision Awareness, a simple vision screening only identifies 5% of vision problems in children. While these vision screenings are useful for offering an early indication of problems relating to distance eyesight, they miss other critical vision deficiencies that can impact a child's eye health, development, and school performance. However, a comprehensive eye examination by an Optometrist measures a number of visual skills that are critical to a child's healthy vision, such as:

• using both eyes as a team,
• the ability of the eyes to focus properly when reading a book, or viewing a computer,
• and the ability of the eyes to move properly when reading across a page of print.

The following is list of signs that you can look for if a student has poor vision:

1. Squinting, closing or covering one eye: excessive blinking or rubbing of the eyes
2. Dislike and/or avoidance of close work; short attention span; frequent daydreaming
3. Placing the head close to a book when reading; losing place while reading
4. Complaints of headaches, nausea and dizziness; excessive clumsiness
5. Turning or tilting the head to one side

If you notice any of these symptoms, be sure to schedule your child/ren/ with an eye care professional for a comprehensive eye examination.

For more information on undetected vision problems in children please visit www.checkyearly.com