Kids don’t always tell you when something feels “off” with their eyes. They may think it’s normal to squint at the board in class or lose their place when reading. If you’ve been wondering whether your child needs to see a pediatric eye doctor, the answer is most likely yes. 

A pediatric eye exam goes beyond reading letters on a chart. It checks how clearly your child sees, how well their eyes focus, and how their visual system supports reading, schoolwork, and everyday tasks. In this blog, we’ll share six common signs that children need an eye exam and how early care can support their learning, comfort, and confidence.

1. Frequent squinting or eye rubbing

Have you noticed your child squinting when watching TV or rubbing their eyes more often than usual? Kids usually do this when they are experiencing blurry or unclear vision. They might assume it’s just part of reading or doing schoolwork. During a comprehensive eye exam, our expert team can determine whether they need glasses or other solutions to help them see more comfortably.

2. Sitting too close to screens or holding books too close

If your child sits right in front of the TV or holds books close to their face, they may not be able to see distant objects clearly. Many children get used to this without realizing anything is wrong.  

When you schedule regular eye exams, your child’s eye doctor can detect vision problems like nearsightedness (myopia) early and recommend myopia management to help slow its progression. The sooner we start myopia management, the better the chances of lowering your child’s risk of developing more serious conditions later in life.

3. Frequent headaches or tired eyes

Headaches after school or eye strain during homework shouldn’t be brushed off as “just tiredness.” Kids often experience discomfort when their eyes work harder than they should.  

These symptoms may indicate an outdated prescription or problems with how your child’s eyes focus or work together—issues a pediatric eye doctor can evaluate and treat. Vision therapy, upgraded glasses, or contact lenses may help your child read and learn more comfortably.

4. Losing their place while reading or avoiding reading altogether

Does your child skip lines, lose their place, or use a finger to track words when reading? Some children avoid reading because it feels frustrating or uncomfortable, even if they’re smart and capable. These behaviors can be linked to eye tracking or focusing issues rather than reading ability. 

A pediatric eye exam can identify whether your child’s eyes are having trouble moving smoothly along a page or staying focused at close distances. With solutions like glasses or vision therapy, your child may find reading easier and more enjoyable. 

5. Tilting the head or covering one eye

Kids sometimes tilt their head or cover one eye to see objects more clearly. You might notice this while your child watches TV or does homework. These behaviors suggest their eyes might not be working well as a team.  

Our optometrists in Sidney, Troy, and Fort Loramie can help determine if your child would benefit from glasses, vision therapy, or other care to keep their eyes functioning comfortably and in proper alignment.

6. Challenges with sports or hand-eye coordination

If your child often misses catches, misjudges distances, or struggles with coordination drills, it may not just be clumsiness. Athletes need strong vision to perform well. On the field or court, it is important to have good depth perception, eye tracking, and eye focusing skills. Vision therapy can help strengthen these skills, giving your child more confidence and better performance in sports and everyday activities. 

Helping your child see and learn comfortably 

Don’t let vision problems affect your child’s learning and development. When their eyes work well, kids can enjoy school, activities, and everyday experiences. Whether they need glasses, contact lenses, vision therapy, or myopia management, early care helps protect their vision and build confidence as they grow. 

Schedule an appointment at Primary EyeCare Associates for personalized eye care that supports clear, comfortable eyesight.