Childrens Optometry

What Is Optometry? Optometry is a medical profession that practice testing for defects or abnormalities of eye and vision in order to prescribe corrective glasses and treatment of eye diseases. 

Why Is Children's Optometry Important? Eye defects and vision problems are a great matter of concern. Since eye and vision problems can get worse over time, an early diagnosis and treatment are necessary. 

During the first year of a child's birth, the basic visual functions develop rapidly and by the age of six years, the visual functions have developed fully. American Optometric Association (AOA) suggests a child's thorough optometry examination between the age of 3 and 5 years to ensure proper eye development. The first examination of the eye should be conducted at the age of six months, but it should not be broad in scope.

Common Eye Defects of Children Children's optometry examination is necessary to make sure there are no visual problems. Following are the most common eye defects of children, parents need to consider at an early age. 

• Strabismus or crossed eye: Turning of one or both eyes inward or outward. This often can cause amblyopia. 
• Amblyopia or lazy eye: Lack of clear vision which cannot be corrected with eyeglasses. 

When to See a Children Optometrist? Children at the age of 2 to 5 years are too young to explain any issue related to the eye or vision. Parents should closely observe the signs of vision problems. 

• Watching TV closely or holding a book too near.
• Rubbing eyes or blinking frequently.
• Squinting eyes.
• Not recognizing different colours or shapes. 
• Turning of the eyeball.
• Lack of coordination between eye and hands. 

Vision Development of Children There are a lot of ways in which playing activities can be used to develop visual skills in children. Nowadays, many toys are available which helps in children's visual development. The following are a few activities that help in developing a child's visual skills. 

• Color or picture matching games. 
• Throwing and catching a ball. 
• Letter or picture recognition.
• Drawing simple lines or objects. 
• Encouraging children to do small household activities. 
• Encouraging to play with other children. 
• Sensory games, including different materials in a box.
• Stacking blocks.
• Cutting or assembling different objects. 
• Observing colours of nature. 

The age of 2 to 5 years is the time when a child develops the abilities that will prepare them for their future life. This is the time when the parents need to be more alert to look out for any signs of delay in the proper development of their children. If you notice any activity or habit that is not usual with other children, then make an appointment with a children's optometrist.