Vision changes tend to happen gradually, and it can be difficult to tell when your child doesn't see as well as they used to. Unfortunately, these issues can have a negative effect on your child, both in school and out, so it's important that they get glasses if needed. Here are some signs that your child may need glasses; if you see them exhibit any of them, an appointment with an optometrist can help correct your child's vision. 

What Are a Few Signs Your Child Might Need Glasses?

1. Squinting

Squinting can be a sign that they have a refractive error, which makes their vision blurry and affects how their eyes focus. If you see your child squinting, it can be a sign that they're trying to get their vision to focus and allow them to see more clearly.

2. Holding Devices Too Close to Their Eyes

If your child is holding books or devices too close to their eyes or sitting too close to the television, it can be a sign that they need glasses. If this is the case, your child may be nearsighted, or what optometrists call myopia, which means they have clear vision closer to their eyes but poorer vision from a distance, so holding objects close to their eyes makes it easier to see them. 

3. Complaining of Headaches or Eye Pain

If your child frequently complains about headaches or eye pain, especially after reading or watching television, it can be that their eyes are overexerted from trying to see with blurred vision. 

4. Covering an Eye 

When a child covers an eye when reading or watching television, it's their attempt at self-correcting their vision. By covering one eye, they can be trying to stop using the eye with poorer vision, which can be a sign of strabismus, or crossed eyes, which causes double vision. 

5. Tilting Their Head

By tilting their head, your child may be attempting to adjust the angle of their vision. This can be a sign that they have amblyopia, or a lazy eye, or that their eyes are misaligned, which optometrists can help treat.

If you think your child may need glasses, take them to Alexander Eye Associates & Optical. Located in Rochester, NY, this locally owned and operated eye clinic is run by two trained and experienced optometrists that can treat the whole family. They offer routine check-ups, as well as pre-op and post-op care for those undergoing specialized eye treatments. They will help you find the best solution for your vision issues. To schedule an appointment, call them at (585) 325-3070 or visit their website for a list of their services.