By Dr Peculiar Idiagbonya (OD)
Eye exercises cannot replace prescription glasses but can enhance how a child’s eyes and brain coordinate. Structured Vision Therapy at SpecSMART Eye Clinic in Ikeja strengthens visual skills essential for learning, sports, and confidence.
Why Focus on Visual Skills?
Good vision is more than 20/20 eyesight. It depends on skills like:
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Eye Teaming (Binocularity): Both eyes focusing together on the same object.
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Focusing (Accommodation): Ability to switch focus quickly between near and far.
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Tracking (Oculomotor Skills): Following moving objects or lines of text smoothly.
Common Symptoms from Underdeveloped Visual Skills
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Headaches
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Double vision
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Reading fatigue
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Poor concentration
Fun Eye Exercises to Try at Home
1. The Pencil Push-Up Game
Builds eye teaming. Hold a pencil at arm’s length, focus on a spot, slowly bring it toward the nose until it blurs or doubles, then back out. Repeat 5–10 times.
2. Near-Far Focus Sprint
Improves focusing flexibility. Alternate focus between a near card (12 inches away) and a distant object, holding each for 5 seconds. Repeat 10 times.
3. The Figure Eight Challenge
Sharpens eye tracking. Trace a large sideways ‘8’ on a wall with eyes only, switch directions after 30 seconds.
4. The 20-20-20 Power Break
Relieves digital eye strain. Every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds and blink rapidly during the break.
5. Play-Based Coordination Games
Activities like catch, bead stringing, blocks, and flashlight tag develop hand-eye coordination, depth perception, and binocular vision.
When to See a Specialist
Seek professional care if your child has:
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Frequent headaches
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Double vision
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Trouble reading or concentrating
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Signs of eye turn (crossed or lazy eye)
SpecSMART Eye Clinic offers doctor-supervised Vision Therapy programs tailored to strengthen eye-brain coordination.
Take the Next Step with SpecSMART Eye Clinic
Schedule a comprehensive eye exam at SpecSMART Eye Clinic in Ikeja. Our experienced team helps children see clearly, learn confidently, and thrive visually.
FAQs
Can eye exercises replace glasses?
No, glasses are essential for refractive errors.
What skills do vision exercises improve?
Eye teaming, focusing, and tracking.
Are at-home exercises effective?
They help strengthen skills but don’t replace professional care.
When should I consult an eye specialist?
If your child has headaches, double vision, or concentration issues.
Does SpecSMART offer Vision Therapy?
Yes, customized programs supervised by trained optometrists.
📍Contact SpecSMART Eye Clinic Ikeja
Ikoyi Plaza, Keffi Street, Ikoyi
📞 0701 820 7486
📍Learn More
Ourr 5 steps eye test process explained in more detail.