Tips for parents to identify children with vision problems

Nearly 80 percent of what a child learns during their first 12 years is obtained through their vision.

Though vision problems may seem easy to identify, they actually can be difficult for parents to discern. Still, parents need to be attentive since vision disorders are the fourth-most-common disability in children in the U.S.

"The symptoms of vision problems in young children can be very subtle. Often, it's not until they are in school that it starts to become apparent," said Dr. Eileen Gable, eye specialist at Loyola University Health System.

Gable gives a few tips to help parents know what to look for:

•Loses interest quickly. Children won't complain of blurry vision but will lose interest quickly because the visual activity is difficult.
•Physical changes to see better. Children will do what they need to do in order to see. Does your child:
oTurn his or her head or tilt it one way or the other when looking at something?
oSit with one eye covered?
oMake a physical change in body position in order to see?
•Changes in school work or behavior at school.
School-age children who can't see well may act out in school or their grades may suffer. Parents should be in contact with their child's teacher to better assess a child's behavior.

"Teachers are a great resource and should work with parents to help determine if a child's behavior in school or difficulty with grades might be a response to a vision problem," said Gable.

To help discern if your child has a vision problem she suggests making sure your child is:

•Staying hydrated
•Eating a balanced diet
•Practicing good sleep habits

"Without these key healthy habits children can have a hard time focusing and may have headaches or other issues that can mimic vision problems," said Gable. "The eye is controlled by muscles it needs rest, proper nutrition and hydration, too."

If a parent or teacher suspects a child has a vision problem Gable suggests seeking professional care from a pediatric or family eye health specialist so the child feels comfortable.

"Having a vision problem can be scary for a child. You want to ensure the physician you see can put the child at ease and be a helpful resource to parents and teachers," said Gable.