A vision checklist for teachers and parents.

Vision problems can elicit a wide range of signs and symptoms. Some, like eyestrain or blurred vision, can usually be attributed directly to a vision dysfunction. Others, such as poor attention span at school, clumsiness in sports, or reduced productivity at work, may not immediately be recognized as possible signs of a vision problem.  The following is a listing of common signs or symptoms of vision problems that may indicate the need for a comprehensive vision exam:

• Frequent headaches or eye strain
• Blurring of distance or near vision, particularly after reading or close work
• Avoidance of close work or other visually demanding tasks
• Turning of an eye in or out, up or down
• Tendency to cover or close one eye, or favor the vision in one eye
• Double vision
• Poor hand-eye coordination
• Difficulty following a moving target
• Dizziness or motion sickness
• Poor reading comprehension
• Difficulty copying from one place to another
• Loss of place, repetition, and/or omission of words while reading
• Difficulty changing focus from distance to near and back
• Poor handwriting
• Can respond orally but cannot get the same information down on paper
• Letter and word reversals
• Difficulty judging sizes and shapes

As explained in an earlier article, annual exams are needed to monitor children’s vision.  Infants 6 months through 12 months are eligible for free exams through InfantSee providers.  Children must get their eyes examined before pre-K and Kindergarten… school screeners are not comprehensive enough to catch all the subtle things that can effect your child’s learning.