Why Is Children’s Eyecare Important?

Many children may not realize they have vision problems and assume that what they see is normal, which, as a result, could lead to undiagnosed issues that worsen over time. Therefore, it’s crucial to prioritize your child’s eyecare to support their learning, development, and overall well-being.

In this blog, we break down why children’s eye care is so important, as well as how you can support your child’s optimal vision and eye health.

Why is children’s eyecare important?

Approximately 80% of a child’s learning is delivered visually, meaning poor vision can significantly impact their ability to process information, affecting tasks like reading, writing, and social interactions. Shockingly, a recent 2020 study revealed that one in 5 preschool-aged children have undiagnosed vision disorders – highlighting the importance of early detection and intervention.

Signs of poor vision in children

If you’re a parent, guardian, or educator, watch out for these common signs of vision problems in infants and children:

  • trouble concentrating
  • squinting
  • head tilting
  • holding objects close to the face
  • sitting close to screens
  • headaches
  • struggling to read
  • frequent eye rubbing
poor vision in children

Understanding common eye conditions in children

There are many eye conditions like myopia (near-sightedness), astigmatism, strabismus, amblyopia, and hyperopia (far-sightedness), which are commonly diagnosed in children and can significantly impact their visual health if left untreated.

How to look after your kid’s eyes

A routine eye exam for kids is crucial for early detection and management of eye conditions. At Montana Eyecare, children as young as 6 months can attend comprehensive eye exams, ensuring any vision problems are identified and addressed promptly. Additionally, reducing your child’s screen time, encouraging outdoor play, providing sufficient UV protection with sunglasses, and promoting a balanced diet rich in vitamins and nutrients can support overall eye health in children.

eye exam for kids

Book your appointment

Looking for a ‘kid’s eye exam near me’? Early intervention and proactive measures can significantly impact your child’s visual development and future success. Schedule an eye exam today at our eye doctors in Helena, MT.