It’s August and summer vacation is winding down, and students are preparing for another school year. This year, don’t forget to check an annual eye exam off their to do lists.

It is important to have your child’s eyes tested, because it can lead to greater success in the classroom because much of a child’s learning occurs visually.

Have you noticed any change in your child’s vision? Here are some signs and behaviors you can watch for that may indicate a child is struggling with his or her vision.

What does your child’s eyes look like?

• Eyes don’t line up, one eye appears crossed or looks outward;
• Eyelids are red-rimmed, crusted, or swollen; or
• Eyes are watery or red (inflamed).

Is Your Child Doing Any of the Following?

• Rubs eyes frequently;
• Closes or covers one eye;
• Tilts head or thrusts head forward;
• Has trouble reading or doing other close-up work, or holds objects close to eyes to see;
• Blinks more than usual or seems cranky when doing close-up work; or
• Squints eyes or frowns.

Does Your Child Say Any of the Following?

• “My eyes are itchy,”
• “My eyes are burning,”
• “My eyes feel scratchy,”
• “I can’t see very well”
• After doing close-up work, your child says, “I feel dizzy,” or “I have a headache,”
• “Everything looks blurry,” or “I see double.”

It is recommended that your child has annual eye exams, to screen for any abnormal changes in vision.