Back to School: Why Your Child’s Eye Health Matters
As children head back to school, most parents are busy with uniforms, books, and lunchboxes. But one thing that often gets overlooked is eyesight – and good vision is vital for your child’s learning and development.
While we often associate eyesight problems with ageing, many children experience conditions such as short-sightedness, long-sightedness, squints, or lazy eye (amblyopia).
Around 1 in 50 children will develop a lazy eye.
Around 1 in 500 children will develop a squint.
Considering that 80% of learning is visual, keeping on top of your child’s eye health is essential.
Why Early Detection Matters
The ages of four to eight are crucial years for spotting and correcting vision problems. Eye tests provided in primary schools are very useful, but if you have any concerns, it’s important to seek specialist advice sooner rather than later.
At Progressive Vision, our specialist paediatric ophthalmology team provides full eye assessments for children of all ages. With a gentle, child-friendly approach, our doctors manage conditions such as:
- Lazy eye (amblyopia)
- Squints (strabismus)
- Refractive errors (short- or long-sightedness)
- Congenital eye disorders
Our clinics in Sandyford and Swords are designed to help children feel relaxed and comfortable, even if they’re a little anxious about eye tests.
Signs Your Child May Be Struggling with Their Vision
Eye problems in children can sometimes be subtle. Here are some of the most common signs:
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Sitting very close to the TV or holding books too close
This may look like concentration, but it can often mean your child is struggling to see clearly. -
Closing or covering one eye
This may be a sign of amblyopia (lazy eye), where one eye is weaker and the brain relies more on the stronger eye. -
Falling behind at school
Difficulty seeing the board, reading, or following lessons can sometimes be linked to poor eyesight. -
Frequent eye rubbing or watery eyes
Children often rub their eyes when vision is unclear or if they’re straining to focus.
Other signs include complaints of blurred vision, sensitivity to light, red or irritated eyes, or difficulty concentrating on reading.
What to Do Next
If your child is showing any of these signs, don’t wait. A simple eye test can provide peace of mind – and if treatment is needed, the earlier it starts, the better the outcome for your child’s future vision.
At Progressive Vision:
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No referral is needed to book an appointment.
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Our experienced team of ophthalmologists and optometrists provide comprehensive, compassionate care.
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We work closely with parents to create tailored treatment plans for each child.
Book Your Child’s Eye Test Today
With the new school year beginning, now is the perfect time to make sure your child’s eyesight is supporting their learning and confidence.
📞 Call us on 01-2135652
📧 Email info@progressivevision.ie
🌐 Or book online at www.progressivevision.ie
Two convenient Dublin locations:
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Sandyford – South Dublin
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Swords – North Dublin