The school summer holidays can be a useful time to think about your child’s eyesight. With the pressure of lessons and homework temporarily reduced, there is more time to arrange an eye examination, deal with any changes in vision and make sure glasses are comfortable and ready for the new term.
Children do not always realise that their vision is blurred or uncomfortable. They may assume that everyone sees in the same way, or adapt by moving closer, squinting or avoiding tasks they find difficult. A routine eye examination can identify problems that may otherwise be easy to miss.
Why children’s eyesight matters
Clear, comfortable vision supports reading, writing, classroom learning, sport, coordination and everyday confidence. Some childhood vision problems respond best when they are found early, while a straightforward glasses prescription can make a noticeable difference to how easily a child sees at school and at home.
An eye examination does more than find out whether glasses are needed. It can assess how clearly each eye sees, how the eyes work together, focusing, eye movements and the health of the eyes.
Signs that your child may need an eye examination
Possible signs of a vision problem can include:
- sitting very close to the television or computer
- holding books, tablets or phones unusually close
- squinting or narrowing the eyes to see
- frequently rubbing the eyes or blinking
- complaining of headaches or tired eyes
- losing their place when reading
- covering or closing one eye
- turning or tilting the head when looking at something
- difficulty seeing the board at school
- problems with catching a ball or hand-eye coordination
- one eye appearing to turn inwards, outwards, upwards or downwards
These signs do not necessarily mean that something is seriously wrong, but they are good reasons to arrange an examination. It is also sensible to have a child’s eyes checked if there is a family history of a squint, lazy eye or significant short-sightedness.
Children do not need to be able to read
A child can have an eye examination at any age. They do not need to know letters or be able to describe their vision in detail. Pictures, matching tests, lights and other age-appropriate techniques can be used to assess eyesight and how the eyes are working.
At Actons, Victoria adapts the examination to the child’s age and confidence. There is time for them to settle, understand what is happening and complete the tests without feeling rushed.
Does school vision screening replace an eye examination?
Some children are offered vision screening when they start school, usually at around four or five years old. This is helpful for detecting reduced vision, but provision varies between areas and screening is not the same as a full eye examination at an opticians.
You do not need to wait for school screening if you have concerns. Parents and carers can arrange an eye examination directly with an optometrist.
Are children’s eye examinations free?
Free NHS sight tests are available for children under 16 and for young people aged 16, 17 or 18 who are in full-time education. NHS optical vouchers may also contribute towards the cost of glasses when a prescription is required.
You can read more about NHS eye examination eligibility or visit our Children’s Eyecare page for information about examinations, children’s frames and hospital prescriptions.
Healthy visual habits during the holidays
Screens are part of everyday life, particularly during school holidays. Rather than treating screen use as inherently harmful, encourage regular changes of activity and breaks from prolonged close work. Reading, drawing, gaming and using a tablet all involve sustained near focus, so looking into the distance and spending time outdoors can provide a useful change.
Evidence suggests that spending time outdoors may help delay the onset of short-sightedness in some children. Outdoor activity also supports general health and gives the eyes opportunities to focus across a wider range of distances.
Protecting children’s eyes in the sun
Children’s eyes should be protected from strong sunlight just as their skin is. Choose well-fitting sunglasses with proper ultraviolet protection rather than simply dark-tinted lenses. Look for recognised markings such as the CE or UKCA mark and the relevant British Standard. A sun hat with a brim can provide additional shade and comfort.
For swimming, well-fitting goggles can protect the eyes and improve comfort. Contact lenses should not be worn while swimming unless specific professional advice and suitable protection have been provided.
Getting glasses ready for the new term
If your child already wears glasses, the summer break is a good opportunity to check that they still fit properly. Children grow quickly, and frames can become loose, sit unevenly or slide down the nose. Scratched lenses, damaged nose pads or bent sides can also make glasses less comfortable to wear.
Children’s frames need to stay in the correct position during lessons, play and sport. At Actons, we can check the fit, make adjustments and advise if a different size or style would be more suitable. We also have experience with specialist children’s frames and prescriptions issued by hospital eye clinics.
When should you seek advice promptly?
Arrange advice promptly if an eye suddenly turns, your child reports double vision, there is a noticeable change in sight, or an eye is painful, very red or sensitive to light. Eye injuries and sudden changes should not wait for a routine appointment. Contact the practice and we can advise whether our Urgent Eyecare service is appropriate or whether other medical help is needed.
Would you like to arrange a children’s eye examination?
Contact our Worcester team if you have concerns about your child’s sight, would like an examination during the holidays or need help with their existing glasses.
This article provides general information and is not a substitute for an individual eye examination or medical advice.
