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Saturday - 8.30am to 4.00pm

Children's Vision

The importance of good vision

Good vision is essential for a child to reach their full potential. More than 80 per cent of the information children receive about the world comes through their eyes. Vision problems can severely impact on a child's educational, physical and social development.

It is important for a parent to recognise the signs of vision defects, as often a child is not aware that they have a problem. Children lack the benefit of an adult's experience and just assume that their vision is normal. Heming Scott & Donald understand just how precious a child's vision is, and are committed to helping you take great care of your children's eyes.

The most common vision problems in children

The most common problems with children's vision are those affecting the ability to see clearly and sharply. Myopia (blurred distance vision), Hyperopia (increased difficulty focusing at near) and Astigmatism (distortion of vision) are the three most prevalent vision conditions among children.

These problems are well known and often parents and teachers will look for them. Once recognised, they are usually easy to correct.

Other vision problems

Another group of vision problems among children involves what is known as visual performance. These problems frequently escape detection in school vision tests and other vision screenings, but are commonly observed by parents and teachers.

Types of visual performance problems include:

1. Poor co-ordination of the eyes
2. Turned eye
3. Eye movement defects
4. Poor hand-eye co-ordination
5. Difficulties maintaining clear focus over time.

One other problem that can cause learning difficulties for children in school is colour vision deficiency. Children in their early grades at school are taught through the use of colour and their learning can be hampered by not being able to see colours properly. It is important for your child's colour vision to be checked before he or she enters school. In knowing if your child is colour vision deficient, you will be able to minimise learning difficulties that your child may have.

Regular examinations

Vision disorders are common in school-aged children and the prevalence of vision disorders increases as children progress through school. Optometrists Association Australia recommends that all children should have a comprehensive eye and vision examination every two years throughout their schooling.

Quick screenings, which are conducted in fewer schools throughout Australia, are no substitute for an optometric examination. A thorough eye examination at Heming Scott & Donald takes approximately 30 minutes and attracts a Medicare rebate.

The above information was largely produced by the Optometrist Association Australia.