Children don’t always know how to explain that they can’t see clearly. In fact, they may not even realize anything is wrong. That’s why it’s so important for parents to watch for the subtle signs of vision problems. Whether it’s avoiding reading or unusual behavior at school, these can all point to something more than a simple attention issue. Continue reading to discover what to look for—and how regular eye exams can help.
Common Signs Your Child May Have Trouble Seeing
Dr. Haley Backus shares that many children with vision issues show their struggles in indirect ways. Watch for:
- Squinting at screens or distant objects
- Frequent headaches or complaints of eye discomfort
- Rubbing their eyes more than usual
- An eye that turns in or out (a sign of possible lazy eye)
- Avoiding schoolwork or reading
- Acting out in class—which may be misread as behavioral issues
Children may develop workarounds to cope with poor vision, like relying on one eye or avoiding visual tasks altogether. As Dr. Backus puts it, “Sometimes they act out simply because they can’t see well and don’t know how to explain it.”
Can My Child Still Have a Vision Problem If They Don’t Complain?
Yes—this is actually very common. Kids often don’t report vision problems because they don’t realize their experience is different from others. If one eye is stronger, they may compensate without noticing any major issue.
“Kids don’t know the difference between good vision and poor vision,” Dr. Backus explains. That’s why relying on symptoms alone isn’t enough—you need regular, comprehensive eye exams to stay ahead of hidden issues.
The Role of Screen Time in Eye Health
Digital devices are a big part of modern childhood—but overexposure can impact your child’s vision. Too much screen time, especially without breaks or time spent outdoors, can contribute to:
- Progressive myopia (nearsightedness)
- Eye strain and fatigue
- Difficulty focusing or concentrating
“We’re definitely seeing more myopia related to screen time and lack of outdoor play,” Dr. Backus notes. Making small changes, like limiting device use and encouraging outdoor activity, can make a big difference in long-term eye health.
Why You Can’t Rely on School or Pediatrician Screenings Alone
Many parents assume a vision screening at school or during a pediatric well visit is enough—but these checks only scratch the surface. Vision screenings usually measure how far your child can see but don’t evaluate eye teaming, prescription needs, or the health of the eye.
“They don’t have the equipment we have,” Dr. Backus says. “That’s why many pediatricians send kids straight to us—they know we do a full checkup.”
Only a comprehensive exam by an optometrist can uncover early signs of myopia, amblyopia (lazy eye), or other conditions before they affect your child’s development.
Protecting Your Child’s Vision Starts Early
Whether your child is showing signs of vision trouble or hasn’t complained at all, scheduling routine exams is the best way to protect their eye health. Early detection allows for earlier treatment—which can prevent long-term issues and support learning, behavior, and development.
At Lakeside Vision Centre, we offer gentle, thorough eye exams tailored to kids of all ages, in a welcoming and family-friendly environment.
Schedule an Eye Exam in Port Colborne, Ontario
We know that vision problems can be hard to detect in children—especially when they don’t know how to speak up. That’s why Lakeside Vision Centre is here to help. If your child has been rubbing their eyes, avoiding schoolwork, or you’re just not sure how well they’re seeing, book a visit with our team today.
Call or visit us in Port Colborne, Ontario to schedule your child’s next eye exam. Early action now can prevent bigger problems later.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What are signs my child may have a vision issue?
A: Headaches, squinting, rubbing eyes, avoiding reading or schoolwork, and behavioral changes are all common signs.
Q: Can screen time hurt my child’s eyesight?
A: Yes. Excessive screen use has been linked to myopia progression and digital eye strain.
Q: My child passed a school vision screening—do they still need an exam?
A: Yes. Screenings miss many eye health and vision coordination issues that only a full eye exam can detect.
Q: What if my child hasn’t complained about vision problems?
A: Children often don’t recognize poor vision. That’s why yearly eye exams are essential—even without symptoms.