As parents, we want our children to grow up healthy and happy — and good vision is an essential part of that. Eye conditions in children are often missed, simply because kids don’t always know that what they’re seeing isn’t normal.
Here are three of the most common eye conditions found in children, and how to spot them early:
- Strabismus (Crossed or Misaligned Eyes)
What is it?
Strabismus is when the eyes don’t move together in the same direction. One eye might look straight ahead, while the other turns in, out, up, or down.
Signs to look out for:
You notice one eye turns or “wanders”
Your child tilts or turns their head to focus
Frequent headaches
Why it matters:
If untreated, it can lead to amblyopia (lazy eye), where the brain starts to ignore the image from the misaligned eye.
- Amblyopia (Lazy Eye)
What is it?
Amblyopia happens when one eye doesn’t develop normal vision. The brain relies on the stronger eye and starts to “ignore” the weaker one. This often results from strabismus, a large difference in prescription between the two eyes, or anything that blocks vision (like a drooping eyelid).
Signs to look out for:
Poor depth perception
Difficulty with tasks like catching a ball or reading
May not always show symptoms, especially if the stronger eye compensates
Why it matters:
Amblyopia is most effectively treated during early childhood — ideally before the age of 7. Treatment can include patching the stronger eye, special eye drops, or wearing glasses.
- Refractive Errors (Nearsightedness, Farsightedness, and Astigmatism)
What is it?
Refractive errors occur when the eye doesn’t focus light properly, leading to blurry vision. These include:
Myopia (nearsightedness) – difficulty seeing things far away
Hyperopia (farsightedness) – difficulty focusing on things up close
Astigmatism – distorted or blurry vision at all distances
Signs to look out for:
-Squinting or sitting very close to screens
-Rubbing eyes frequently
-Headaches or eye strain
-Poor performance at school or avoiding reading
Why it matters:
Refractive errors are common and easily managed with prescription glasses or contact lenses. Regular eye exams are key to catching them early.
Your child’s vision plays a major role in their learning, development, and confidence. If you notice any of the signs mentioned above, or if your child hasn’t had a comprehensive eye exam recently, book a check-up with Van Eeden Optometrists.
Early detection can make all the difference. Let’s work together to give your child the clearest view of the world!