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7 Signs Your Child Might Need an Eye Exam. A Calgary Optometrist's Guide
- Dr. Monica Bell, OD
- 4 days ago
- 4 min read
As parents, we are pretty good at spotting when something's off: fevers, coughs, changes in behaviour. But vision problems can quietly slip under the radar, especially in children.
Kids rarely come to you and say, "I can't see properly." In fact, many children don't even realize there's an issue at all.
Why Children Rarely Complain About Vision Problems
Children don't have a baseline for what “normal” vision looks like. If they’ve always seen the world a certain way, blurry, doubled, strained, they assume that’s just how things are supposed to be.
Unlike adults, they’re not comparing their vision to a clearer past experience; they simply adapt.
Instead of complaining, kids compensate. They might sit closer to the TV, tilt their head to see better, or avoid visually demanding activities. These subtle behaviours are often the only clues that something isn’t quite right.
That’s why knowing exactly what to look for is so important.
7 Signs Your Child Might Need an Eye Exam
Here are seven common, observable signs that could indicate your child is struggling with their vision:
Squinting Frequently
If your child squints while watching TV, reading, or trying to focus, it can be their way of temporarily sharpening blurry vision. Squinting reduces the amount of light entering the eye, which can improve clarity temporarily, but it's not a solution.
Sitting too Close to Screens
Kids who consistently sit very close to the TV, tablet, or hold books right up to their face may be compensating for nearsightedness (myopia). This is one of the most common early signs that parents notice.
Head Tilting or Turning
A persistent head tilt can indicate an eye alignment issue or imbalance between the eyes. Your child may be trying to find a position where their vision feels more clear or comfortable.
Losing Their Place While Reading
If your child frequently skips lines, uses their finger to track words, or gets frustrated during reading, it may not be a learning issue, it could be a vision problem affecting tracking or focus. Up to 60% of children diagnosed with learning disabilities actually have undetected vision problems.
Closing One Eye to See Better
Covering or closing one eye, especially in bright light or when focusing, can be a sign of double vision or poor coordination between the eyes.
Frequent Headaches or Eye Rubbing
Eye strain can lead to headaches, particularly after school or screen time. If your child often rubs their eyes or complains of tired eyes, it’s worth looking into further.
Avoiding Near or Distance Activities
Does your child avoid reading, drawing, or homework? Or maybe they shy away from sports or anything requiring distance vision? Avoidance is often a coping mechanism for visual discomfort.
Visual Milestones: What's Normal at Each Age?
Infant (0-12 Months)
Makes eye contact by 6-8 weeks
Tracks moving objects by 2-3 months
Begins reaching for objects (hand-eye coordination)
Eyes should appear aligned most of the time
Toddler (1-3 Years)
Improved depth perception
Recognizes familiar faces and objects
Shows interest in books and pictures
Developing coordination (stacking,
sorting, drawing)
School-Age (4-12 Years)
Clear vision at all distances
Comfortable reading for extended periods
Strong eye tracking for reading and learning
Good hand-eye coordination for sports and play
If your child isn't meeting these milestones or shows signs of struggle, it's always a good idea to book an eye exam.
When Should Children Have Their First Eye Exam?
The Canadian Association of Optometrists recommends that children have their first comprehensive eye exam between 6 and 9 months of age, even if no issues are suspected.
After that:
At least one exam between ages 2-5
Annual eye exams once they start school
These exams are not just about checking if your child needs glasses; they assess eye health, alignment, focusing ability, and overall visual development.
Alberta Parents: Don't Miss the "Eye See Eye Learn" Program
If your child is entering kindergarten, there’s a valuable program available right here in Alberta.
The Eye See Eye Learn program provides free glasses to kindergarten aged children and covers the cost of specialty lenses, like Stellest, used in myopia control.
It’s designed to ensure kids start school with the visual tools they need to succeed —Because up to 80% of learning is visual.
Book Your Child's Eye Exam Today
Your child’s vision plays a critical role in their confidence, learning, and everyday experiences. The earlier you catch potential issues, the easier they are to address.
Whether you’ve noticed one of the signs above or simply want peace of mind, a comprehensive kids' eye exam is a simple step that can make a lasting impact.
Book your child’s exam at Eye Live by Eyes 360 in Auburn Bay, SE Calgary today and give them the clear, comfortable vision they deserve to set them up for success!
Frequently Asked Questions About Children's Exams
At what age should my child have their first eye exam?
The Canadian Association of Optometrists recommends a child’s first eye exam between 6 and 9 months of age. After that, children should have at least one exam between ages 2–5, and then annual exams once they start school.
What’s the difference between a vision screening and a full eye exam?
Vision screenings (like those done at school or by a family doctor) are basic checks and can miss many issues. A comprehensive eye exam performed by an optometrist evaluates not just clarity of vision, but also eye coordination, focusing, and overall eye health.
When should I book an urgent eye exam for my child?
You should book an urgent appointment if you notice:
One eye turning in or out consistently
Sudden changes in vision
Complaints of double vision
Light sensitivity or excessive tearing
Eye injury or persistent redness
These symptoms may require prompt attention.
Tags: kids eye exam, children's vision, signs need glasses, Calgary SE, Auburn Bay
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