Vision Problems in Children: What Parents Can Look For

Our Bondi and Mosman practices assess children’s eyesight, eye health and visual symptoms. Tell us what you have noticed, when it began and whether it affects distance viewing, reading or other activities. The examination findings guide advice, treatment or referral.

Signs worth discussing

• Squinting or closing one eye to see.
• An eye that turns inward or outward, or a persistent head tilt.
• Blurred or double vision, or difficulty seeing the board.
• Recurring discomfort or headaches during close work.

These observations do not identify a particular diagnosis. A child can also have reduced vision in one eye without an obvious complaint. Healthdirect explains why early assessment of amblyopia matters.

Common conditions and what they mean

Refractive errors include short-sightedness, long-sightedness and astigmatism. They affect how light is focused and can cause blur. An assessment establishes whether glasses or another form of correction is needed; see Healthdirect’s refractive-error overview.

Amblyopia is reduced vision associated with abnormal visual development. It may occur with an eye turn or unequal prescriptions. It needs individual management and follow-up; do not start patching or eye exercises based on an online checklist.

Strabismus means the eyes are not aligned. An optometrist or doctor can assess an eye turn and arrange ophthalmology referral when required. Not every child needs the same treatment.

What an eye examination can assess

Our eye-test overview explains the consultation. Depending on age and clinical findings, testing may include vision in each eye, prescription, alignment, focusing and eye health. A vision skills assessment may be relevant to particular symptoms. Ask which tests are recommended and what they can establish.

Bring current glasses, previous eye reports and a description of the concerns. Share relevant family history and any school screening result. Ask about the findings, alternatives, costs and when your child should return.

Vision, reading and learning

Clear distance vision is one part of an eye examination. Our article on good sight and vision explains why symptoms and eye health also matter.

Reading difficulties, letter reversals or concentration concerns do not on their own diagnose an eye disorder. RANZCO’s statement on learning difficulties recommends early educational assessment and evidence-based teaching support. Eye exercises are not an established treatment for dyslexia. A child can need both eye care for a diagnosed condition and separate support for learning.

Can a child have an eye problem without complaining?

Yes. Children may not notice a difference between their eyes or recognise that their vision is blurred. Squinting, closing one eye or a persistent head tilt are reasons to arrange an assessment.

Does passing a school vision screening replace an eye examination?

No. Screening checks selected aspects of vision. If symptoms persist or you have concerns, discuss a full examination with an optometrist even after a screening pass.

Will treating an eye problem cure reading difficulties?

Treating a diagnosed eye condition can address that visual problem, but it is not a cure for dyslexia or a guarantee of better school results. Learning concerns need appropriate educational assessment and support.

Book Your Child’s Eye Assessment

Contact Bondi on (02) 9365 5047 or Mosman on (02) 9969 1600 to discuss an appointment and any access needs. Recommendations depend on your child’s assessment.