Looking After Your Child's Eyes
Did You Know?
- Up to 1 million children in the UK currently have an undetected vision problem
- Many parents, teachers and children themselves may be unaware that something is wrong
Has Your Child Had A Sight Test?
- Over 90% of children visit a dentist regularly
- Yet only 53% of children have ever had a sight test
Why Vision Matters
- Good eyesight is crucial for a child’s development - at school and socially
- 84% of parents agree that improved vision would have a positive impact on their child’s performance at school
- The eye is still developing throughout childhood so problems treated early can make a difference that lasts a lifetime
Symptoms To Look Out For
Signs which may indicate sight problems include:
- Difficulty concentrating
- Behavioural problems
- Headaches
- Sitting too close to the television
Vision Screening and Sight Tests
- Vision screening is a short examination designed to pick up lazy eye, or amblyopia
- Screening can indicate that there is a problem but it cannot diagnose exactly what is wrong
- You may assume that your child will be screened at primary school however this does not happen in all areas of the country
- A sight test is a more comprehensive check which can pick up many other conditions, including colour vision defects, binocular vision problems and the need for glasses
- Taking children for sight tests from an early age helps to build good eye health habits into adulthood
- We recommend that children have a sight test by the age of three, so that any conditions are picked up and treated early
What Can You Do?
- Make sure your child’s vision is checked before they start school
- Include a sight test in your ‘back to school’ routine
- After the first test it is advisable to return every two years or as recommended by your optometrist
- Encourage children to get outdoors – regular play and exercise can help with eye health – studies show two hours of outdoor activity a day is ideal for healthy eyes
- Help them to eat healthily, including oily fish and dark green vegetables, such as spinach and kale, and drink plenty of water
from the Association Of Optometrists Guide
At Templeman Opticians - Laindon we recognise the importance of children’s eye health and vision. We offer Free NHS Sight Tests for children under 16 and for children under 19 in full time education.
We understand that for some children (and parents) a visit for any form of health check can be a daunting experience. Our optometrists are sympathetic to this and will ensure both parents and children are comfortable with the experience by taking and explaining each test, step by step.
It is important to note a children’s examination is different to an adult examination as the number and type of tests performed will vary, depending on the age of your child.
If your child requires spectacles we have a wide range to choose from. Our children’s range is free, however if you require something a little special for your child we can help you as well.
We also specialise in children’s sunglasses.
To book a Free NHS Sight Test please call into the practice or contact us on 01268 544646 and we will be happy to help.
We understand that for some children (and parents) a visit for any form of health check can be a daunting experience. Our optometrists are sympathetic to this and will ensure both parents and children are comfortable with the experience by taking and explaining each test, step by step.
It is important to note a children’s examination is different to an adult examination as the number and type of tests performed will vary, depending on the age of your child.
If your child requires spectacles we have a wide range to choose from. Our children’s range is free, however if you require something a little special for your child we can help you as well.
We also specialise in children’s sunglasses.
To book a Free NHS Sight Test please call into the practice or contact us on 01268 544646 and we will be happy to help.