Vision Problems of Preschool Children

During the preschool years from ages 3 to 6, your child will be fine-tuning the vision and visual skills he already has developed during the infant and toddler years.

Preschool vision tasks vary with achild's age and activities. For example, many young preschoolers are learning to ride tricycles and master the complex eye-hand coordination needed to pedal, steer and watch where they're going at the same time.

Older preschoolers are learning how to integrate vision and body motions (motor skills) by playing sports such as softball (keep your eye on the ball!), and working on the fine motor skills needed to write their names.

If you have children between the ages of 3 and 6, be aware of these warning signs of possible preschool vision problems:

·         Consistently sitting too close to the TV or holding a book too close

·         Squinting

·         Tilting the head to see better

·         Frequently rubbing eyes, even when not sleepy

·         Shielding eyes or other signs of sensitivity to light

·         Excessive tearing and wateryeyes

·         Closing one eye to read, watch TV or see better

·         Avoiding activities that require near vision, such as coloring or reading, or distance vision, such as playing ball or tag

·         Complaining of headaches or tired eyes

For more information read the original article by Gary Heiting published on All About Vision by clicking here.

Schedule an appointment with an Independent  optometrist if your preschooler exhibits any of these signs. Drop in at the nearest of the three stores of 20/20 Eyeglasses Superstore® in Florida for a comprehensive eye exam at the earliest. The results of this eye exam should then be kept in your health records as this will be a benchmark for future tests and treatment, if required.