By Dr. Chinonye Nwokedi (OD)
As parents, we’re constantly looking out for our children: keeping them safe, healthy, and happy. But one important thing that people often forget about is their kids' eye health. Good eyesight is important for a child to grow, learn, and feel good overall. Yet, many vision problems in children go unnoticed because kids don’t always realize or communicate that they’re struggling to see clearly.
At SpecSMART Eye Clinic Ikeja, we believe that early detection and proper eye care can make a world of difference in a child’s life. In this post, we’ll break down what parents need to know about children’s vision, signs of trouble to watch for, and how regular eye exams can help set your child up for success.
Why Children’s Vision Matters
Vision plays a key role in how children learn and interact with the world. In fact, up to 80% of learning is visual, especially in early childhood; from reading and writing to recognizing faces and navigating their environment. Clear vision is critical.
When a child has an undiagnosed vision issue, it can affect their performance in school, their behavior, and even their confidence. Some children labeled as having attention issues or learning difficulties are simply struggling to see properly.
That’s why comprehensive eye care for children, starting from infancy, isn’t just a good idea; it’s a must.
When Should Children Have Their Eyes Checked?
You might be surprised to learn that vision problems can start as early as infancy. The Canadian Association of Optometrists recommends that kids get their eyes checked for the first time between 6 and 9 months old, again sometime between the ages 2 and 5, and then every year once they begin school.
At SpecSMART Eye Clinic Ikeja, we offer specialized pediatric eye exams tailored to each age group. Our optometrists and opticians are trained to detect early signs of conditions such as:
- Amblyopia (lazy eye)
- Strabismus (crossed eyes)
- Myopia (nearsightedness)
- Hyperopia (farsightedness)
- Astigmatism
Signs Your Child May Have a Vision Problem
Children don’t always have the vocabulary to express what they’re experiencing, especially when it comes to vision. That’s why it’s important to keep an eye out for signs that something might be off. Some common indicators include:
- Frequent eye rubbing
- Squinting or tilting the head to see
- Covering one eye
- Complaints of headaches or tired eyes
- Sitting too close to screens or books
- Poor hand-eye coordination
- Avoiding reading or near work
If you notice any of these signs, don’t wait—book an appointment at SpecSMART Eye Clinic Ikeja. We’ll assess your child’s vision and provide guidance on the next steps if any issues are found.
The Rise of Digital Eye Strain in Kids
Kids today are growing up surrounded by screens and technology. Tablets, phones, computers, and gaming systems are a normal part of daily life. Although gadgets like phones and tablets can be useful, using them too much can tire out the eyes and even make nearsightedness worse over time.
Symptoms of digital eye strain can include:
- Dry or irritated eyes
- Blurred vision
- Neck and shoulder pain
- Trouble focusing
At SpecSMART Eye Clinic Ikeja, we help parents manage their kids' screen time with simple advice—like the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, have your child look at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds. We also provide advice on blue light filtering lenses and proper screen ergonomics.
How Eye Exams Work for Kids
Many parents worry about how their child will react to an eye exam, especially if they’re young or non-verbal. But children’s eye exams are designed to be fun, interactive, and stress-free.
At SpecSMART Eye Clinic Ikeja, our pediatric-friendly staff use age-appropriate tools and techniques to assess your child’s vision. Even if your child isn’t reading yet, we can still check their visual acuity, eye alignment, focusing ability, and overall eye health using symbols, lights, and movement-based testing.
We also take the time to explain each step to you and your child, so you both feel comfortable throughout the process.
Eyeglasses for Kids: Function Meets Fun
If your child does need glasses, the good news is that kids' eyewear today is more stylish, durable, and comfortable than ever before.
Our kids eyeglasses collection at Ikeja includes frames in a variety of colors and styles that kids love, plus options with flexible hinges and impact-resistant lenses perfect for active little ones.
We’ll help you choose the right frames and lenses based on your child’s prescription, face shape, and lifestyle. We’re always here for fittings, repairs, and adjustments to keep those specs in top shape.
What Parents Can Do at Home
In addition to scheduling regular eye exams, there are a few simple things parents can do at home to support their child’s eye health:
- Get kids to play outside more: Sunlight helps lower the chance of becoming nearsighted.
- Limit screen time: Follow guidelines from health authorities and take frequent breaks.
- Provide a balanced diet: Nutrients like vitamin A, omega-3s, and lutein support healthy eyes.
- Ensure good lighting: Reading or doing homework in dim light can strain young eyes.
- Be a role model: Let your child see you wearing your glasses, taking screen breaks, and prioritizing your own eye health.
Trust Your Child’s Vision to SpecSMART Eye Clinic Ikeja
Your child deserves the best start in life, including clear, healthy vision. At SpecSMART Eye Clinic Ikeja, we truly care about children's eye health and work hard to make eye checkups easy and comfortable for both kids and their parents.
Whether it’s your child’s first eye exam, a follow-up visit, or you’re concerned about something you’ve noticed, our team is here to help. Schedule an eye checkup today and help your child enjoy clear, healthy sight.