Summer holidays is well and truly over for my two children and it got me thinking, as they are back in the classroom learning, how can parents spot if their child need glasses? Summer holidays are full of outdoor adventures, some screen time, and a break from the usual school routine. But now that children are back to school, it’s the perfect time for parents to check in on their child’s vision.
Signs that a child needs glasses can be easily missed during the holidays, but become much more obvious when they’re back in the classroom. Here’s what to watch for – and how to help your child see their best this school year.
Why Vision Problems Can Go Unnoticed Over Summer?
During the holidays, children often spend less time reading, writing, or focusing on distant objects like a whiteboard. There’s more freedom to move around, less pressure to concentrate for long periods or for older children they may be hanging out with their friends and therefore, not under parents supervision. This means subtle vision issues can slip under the radar until school starts up again.
Key Signs Your Child Might Need Glasses
1. Squinting or Closing One Eye
If your child squints, blinks a lot, or covers one eye when looking at something, they might be struggling to see clearly.
2. Sitting Too Close to Screens or Holding Books Close
Preferring to sit very close to the TV or holding tablets, phones, or books unusually close to their face can mean shortsightednesses (difficulty seeing things far away).
3. Complaining of Headaches or Tired Eyes
Frequent headaches, especially after reading or screen time, can be a sign that their eyes are working too hard to focus.
4. Trouble Reading the Board or Copying from It
If your child can’t see the board from their seat, or has trouble copying down notes (during homework time), it’s time for an eye test.
5. Rubbing Eyes More Than Usual
Rubbing eyes isn’t always about being tired, it can also mean their eyes are strained or uncomfortable.
6. Losing Place While Reading or Skipping Words
If your child uses their finger to keep track, loses their place, or skips lines when reading, they may be struggling with focusing or tracking.
7. Avoiding Reading, Homework, or Schoolwork
A sudden reluctance to do tasks that require seeing clearly could be a red flag.
8. Clumsiness or Bumping Into Things
If your child seems more clumsy than usual, bumping into furniture or missing steps, it could be a depth perception issue related to vision.
What Signs Are Easy to Miss During Summer?
- Difficulty seeing distant objects: At home or outdoors, kids can avoid looking at things far away, but in class, seeing the board is essential.
- Reading struggles: Less structured reading over summer means problems may only show up with homework or classroom tasks.
- Social withdrawal: Some kids might avoid group games or sports if they can’t see well, but this is easier to miss when routines are looser.
- Increased screen time: Close-up activities can mask distance vision problems.
What Should Parents Do If They Notice These Signs?
- Book an eye test: Early detection is key. In the UK, eye tests are free for children under 16 (and under 19 in full-time education).
- Talk to teachers: Let them know if you have concerns so they can keep an eye out in the classroom too.
- Encourage open conversation: Reassure your child that glasses are common and nothing to worry about.
MGAM’s Take
Back-to-school is the perfect time to check in on your child’s vision. Spotting the signs early means your child can learn, play, and thrive with confidence. If you’re unsure, book that eye test! It’s quick, easy, and could make all the difference for your child’s school year.
Have you noticed any of these signs in your child? Share your stories or questions in the comments, or tag @myglassesandme on Instagram!
Note: Image from Unsplash by Kenny Eliason