Taking care of your family’s eye health

As parents, we value our children’s health and happiness. The way they see the world around them is something we especially treasure. Clear vision is particularly important for children because it is critical for learning and development. Children who need glasses for vision correction, but don’t have them, can be at a real disadvantage in school. Certain eye conditions can worsen over time if left untreated and, in extreme cases, even result in permanent vision loss.

“In a typical classroom environment, 80 per cent of learning is visual. Prior to and throughout their school years, it is important to ensure that a child’s visual system is functioning at maximum efficiency.” – Dr. Michael Kellam, Doctor of Optometry, Nanaimo, B.C.

Many kids who are diagnosed with learning and behaviour issues actually have a vision problem. Vision problems have been connected with conditions such as attention deficit disorder, depression and bi-polar disorder. Unfortunately, many kids don’t get regular eye exams because they don’t have symptoms that are recognized by parents and teachers. And children don’t realize they can’t see the way other kids do because they may never have experienced good vision and have nothing to compare to.

When should your child see a doctor of optometry?

• Between six and nine months of age
• Just before starting kindergarten
• Annually throughout the school years

“Our son Cohen was born with very limited vision, but CNIB [the Canadian National Institute for the Blind] helped us with strategies to help keep him visually stimulated so his sense of sight stays active – and we’re happy to say he’s meeting his developmental milestones.” – Mary Jordan, mother of 2-year-old Cohen

The best way to ensure your child has good vision and healthy eyes is by scheduling comprehensive eye exams for your children – and while you’re at it, for yourself.

Signs your child may have a problem with vision

• Headaches, sensitivity to light, squinting, rubbing the eyes or excessive blinking
• Covering or closing one eye, tilting the head or unusual posture
• Holding objects too close
• Avoiding books and television
• Trouble reading, including losing place or tracking words with the finger, omitting or confusing small words
• Irritability, short attention span or performing below potential

Did You Know? 1 in 6 school-age children diagnosed with a learning disability actually has a correctable vision problem.

For more information or to book an appointment with one of our Doctors of Optometry, please call 604.553.3900 or visit www.visionsourcenw.com.

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