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School-Age Vision
About 80% of learning in a child's first 12 years comes
through the eyes. Some children are labeled "learning
disabled" or "trouble-makers," when all they
need is an eye exam and appropriate vision correction. Good
vision is fundamental to reading; it is vital to seeing
such learning tools as the chalkboard, visual aids and videos.
In short, good vision is as essential to learning as the
ABC's.
Unlike a comprehensive exam, a simple vision screening
? a distance vision test using a Snellen chart ? only identifies
5% of vision problems in children. While these vision screenings
are useful for offering an early indication of problems
relating to distance eyesight, they miss other critical
vision deficiencies that can impact a child's eye health,
development and school and learning performance.
However, a comprehensive eye exam measures a number of
visual skills that are critical to a child's healthy vision,
such as using both eyes as a team, the ability of the eyes
to focus properly when reading a book, or viewing a computer,
and the ability of the eyes to move properly when reading
across a page of print.
The basic vision skills needed for school use are:
| Near vision. The ability to see clearly
and comfortably at 10-13 inches. |
| Distance vision. The ability to see
clearly and comfortably beyond arm's reach. |
| Binocular coordination. The ability
to use both eyes together. |
| Eye movement skills. The ability
to aim the eyes accurately, move them smoothly across
a page and shift them quickly and accurately from one
object to another. |
| Focusing skills. The ability to keep
both eyes accurately focused at the proper distance
to see clearly and to change focus quickly. |
| Peripheral awareness. The ability
to be aware of things located to the side while looking
straight ahead. |
| Eye/hand coordination. The ability
to use the eyes and hands together. |
If any of these or other vision skills is lacking or not
functioning properly, your child will have to work harder.
This can lead to headaches, fatigue and other eyestrain
problems. As a parent, be alert for symptoms that may indicate
your child has a vision or visual processing problem. Be
sure to tell your optometrist if your child frequently:
 Loses
their place while reading;
Avoids
close work;
Holds
reading material closer than normal;
Tends
to rub their eyes;
Has
headaches;
Turns
or tilts head to use one eye only;
Makes
frequent reversals when reading or writing;
Uses
finger to maintain place when reading;
Omits
or confuses small words when reading;
Consistently
performs below potential. |
Since vision changes can occur without you or your child
noticing them, your child should visit your eye doctor at
least every two years, or more frequently, if specific problems
or risk factors exist. If needed, your doctor can prescribe
treatment including eyeglasses, contact lenses or vision
therapy.
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