Why is it important to take children to the ophthalmologist?

14 August 2025

Vision is one of the most important senses for a child’s development. Through their eyes, children learn, explore, and connect with the world around them. However, many vision problems can go unnoticed, especially if the child does not know how to express what they see, or if they believe their vision is “normal” because they have no other reference.

Early detection makes the difference

Some visual conditions, such as myopia, hyperopia, astigmatism, or lazy eye (amblyopia), can develop in the early years of life. If not detected and treated in time, they can affect learning, coordination, and, in some cases, lead to irreversible vision loss.

Specialists recommend that the first eye examination be performed before the age of 4, or even earlier if there is a family history of eye problems. This allows alterations to be identified and corrected early.

Warning signs in children’s vision

Although there are often no obvious symptoms, it is important to observe if the child:

• Gets too close to the TV or books.

• Squints to focus.

• Shows eye deviation (strabismus).

• Frequently rubs their eyes.

• Complains of headaches.

• Has low school performance without an apparent cause.

These signs may indicate a vision problem that requires attention.

Vision and school performance

More than 80% of the information children receive in school comes through their eyes. Uncorrected vision can cause difficulties in reading, writing, and concentration, directly impacting academic performance and self-esteem.

An eye examination not only evaluates visual acuity but also eye coordination, depth perception, retina health, and other internal structures of the eye.