Recognizing Vision Problems in Children: Key Signs Every Parent in Sri Lanka Should Know

Ensuring your child has good vision is vital for their overall development. However, many parents in Sri Lanka may not immediately recognize the signs that their child is experiencing vision problems. Here are some key indicators that your child might be struggling with their eyesight, along with the relevant steps you can take.

Frequent Eye Rubbing

One of the first signs of a vision issue could be frequent eye rubbing. While eye infections, such as conjunctivitis, can cause redness, puffiness, or discharge, consistent rubbing without signs of infection might indicate eye strain. Eye strain often results from conditions like refractive errors, making the eyes feel tired or sore.

Squinting Often

If your child frequently squints when looking at distant objects or while watching TV, it may be more than just a reaction to bright light. Squinting can temporarily improve vision clarity, which could be a sign that your child is experiencing difficulty focusing due to refractive errors like myopia (nearsightedness).

Sitting Too Close to the TV

Contrary to popular belief, sitting too close to the TV does not damage a child’s vision. However, if your child prefers to sit close, it could be a sign of myopia. Nearsighted children see closer objects more clearly than those far away, which is why they may position themselves near screens.

Difficulty Recognizing Letters and Words

Children who mix up words with similar beginnings (e.g., “perform” and “perfect”) or confuse letters such as “p,” “b,” and “q” may have faulty visual form perception. This issue affects their ability to recognize shapes, sizes, and forms, which are critical for reading and learning.

Struggling with Eye Tracking While Reading

If your child frequently loses their place or skips lines while reading, they could have an eye-tracking problem. Proper eye movement is essential for reading. Children with tracking issues often use their finger to guide their reading, helping them stay on track.

Poor Handwriting or Difficulty Coloring

Sloppy handwriting or difficulty staying within the lines while coloring could be due to poor visual-motor integration. This issue makes it hard for children to translate what they see into written or drawn forms. A child with this problem may excel verbally but struggle with written tasks.

Abnormal Eye Appearance in Photographs

If you notice an unusual reflection in your child’s eyes when taking photos-such as a white or yellowish glare instead of the typical red eye-it could indicate an underlying eye issue like retinoblastoma. A comprehensive eye exam is recommended to assess the problem.

Conclusion

Being aware of these signs can help you detect potential vision problems early. Regular eye exams and prompt attention to these symptoms can ensure your child’s visual health remains on track. In Sri Lanka, early detection and treatment are key to preventing long-term vision complications in children. Schedule an appointment with us today! BOOK NOW