Visual Symptoms
Children's Vision
The American Optometric Association estimates that 1 in 4 children have a vision problem that affects their ability to learn. Furthermore, 60% of students identified as problem learners have undetected vision problems. These vision problems, when left untreated, can affect learning and quality of life throughout adulthood. Often times, children do not complain about any visual symptoms. Most believe that they are seeing what everybody else is. In fact, your child can have vision problems even if he/she sees 20/20! Visual clarity is only one aspect of vision. Did you know that you need to be efficient at 17 different visual skills to succeed in reading, learning, sports, and in life? It is important to look out for the signs and symptoms that may indicate your child has a learning-related vision problem.
Symptoms of a visual concern:
Double vision
Blurred vision at near
Fluctuating vision
Headaches or eyestrain associated with near work
Words running together when reading
Vision worse at the end of the day
Skipping/rereading/omitting words while reading
Using a finger as a marker while reading
Head tilt or closing an eye while reading
Difficulty copying from the chalkboard
Avoidance of reading or near work
Holding reading material close
Writing uphill or downhill
Reading comprehension declining over time
Letter or word reversal after the first grade
Inconsistent/poor sports performance
If you think your child may have a vision problem, consider filling out a Quality of Life Symptom Checklist. If you score 25 or higher, call our office at (905) 239-5678 to schedule a visual skills assessment with Dr. Yew.