Undiscovered vision problems can cause learning difficulties or even a dislike of reading. Your child's eyes change rapidly during the early years.  The American Optometric Association recommends that children have their eyes checked by a qualified optometrist or ophthalmologist before beginning school.  Continue annual visual screenings throughout childhood.  A comprehensive eye exam can identify such problems as nearsightedness, farsightedness, eye coordination and focusing deficits, as well as eye health issues.  These conditions that impact your child's school performance can easily be missed during routine school vision screenings. 

The following is a checklist of signs/symptoms of learning-related vision problems.  If you frequently observe one or more of these in your child, it is recommended that the child be referred for a comprehensive eye examination. 

Appearance of the Eyes

• Eyes crossed or turning in, out, or moving independently of each other

• Red, watering eyes

Behavioral Indications of Possible Visual Difficulty

• Squinting or straining to see things

• Dislike or avoidance of close work

• Short attention span or frequent daydreaming

• Turning or tilting head to use one eye or closing/covering one eye

• Placing head close to the book or desk when reading or writing

• Losing place when reading or using finger to guide while reading

• Excessive blinking or rubbing eyes

• Omitting, repeating, or reversing words while reading

• Performs below potential

Complaints Associated with Using the Eyes

• Blurring of vision at any distance (i.e. chalkboard)

• Burning or itching eyes

• Eyestrain or frequent headaches

• Double Vision