Primary Times - the definitive what’s on and where to go family guide of activities and events for children of primary school age. Things to do with your kids during the school holidays including arts and craft activities, music and theatre for children, parties, competitions, days out, and family attractions along with term time drama schools, dance classes, after school clubs and sports activities. Things to do at a place near you!
Back to School: Key eyesight milestones for children every parent should know
As children across the UK start the new school year, the College of Optometrists is encouraging parents to monitor their child’s vision to ensure they aren’t experiencing problems.
The College is alerting parents and guardians to the following developmental milestones and indicators in their children’s vision:
- At age 4 to 5 years, vision screening should happen at school. If this hasn’t happened by the end of your child’s first year at school, take them to see an optometrist.
- As revealed by the NICER study*, children are most likely to start becoming short-sighted between 6 and 13 years of age.
- A child is three times more likely to be short-sighted by the age of 13 if one parent is short-sighted and seven times more likely if both parents are short-sighted.
- Complaints of headaches or tired eyes after school might also indicate an eye problem.
Dr Susan Blakeney FCOptom, Clinical Adviser to the College of Optometrists, says: “If a child has poor vision or is developing a lazy eye it is really important to catch this early. If you have a history of childhood eye problems in your family (such as a needing strong glasses or having a squint or a lazy eye), it is particularly important to be aware of the signs that your child may have inherited this. In some areas children have vision screening done at school, aged 4-5. If this is not done, or if you have any concerns about your child’s sight before then, you should take them to your local optometrist for a sight test. This is paid for by the NHS for children under 16. Children do not need to be able to read, or even speak, for an optometrist to examine their eyes.
“Eyes continue to grow and develop – so ensure you are continually monitoring your child’s vision, even if they have had a recent sight test, as things may change.”
An online infographic, developed by the College, provides a visual guide to help increase parents awareness of possible eye problems their child may face. As a child’s eyesight is continually developing it is important they receive the correct help at the correct stages in life. Making parents aware of these key milestones will ensure they are informed and are able to take appropriate action if any problems arise.
For more information on children’s eye health and to find your nearest optometrist who is a member of the College of Optometrists visit: www.lookafteryoureyes.org