Life

Ask the expert: Should I get my child's eyes tested?

An eye examination by an optometrist is a simple process but it could have a significant impact on your child's vision
An eye examination by an optometrist is a simple process but it could have a significant impact on your child's vision An eye examination by an optometrist is a simple process but it could have a significant impact on your child's vision

Q:"I've noticed my four-year-old daughter always sits very close to the TV, and I'm worried she might need glasses. Shall I wait for her to have her vision screened at school, or take her for an eye examination?"

A: Daniel Hardiman-McCartney, clinical adviser to the College of Optometrists, says: "There are several signs that a child may have a problem with their vision and these include sitting very close to the TV, and holding books or objects very close to their face. Other signs include an eye that turns in (or out), closing one eye, poor hand/eye coordination, and rubbing their eyes a lot.

"It's good you've noticed this sign, as it's important parents are thinking about their children's vision from an early age.

"There may be nothing to worry about but we would encourage parents who have concerns about their child's sight, to take them to the optometrist for an eye examination as soon as possible. While the UK National Screening Committee recommends that all children aged four to five have their vision screened, we know that unfortunately this doesn't happen everywhere. There's no charge for eye examinations for children, which are paid for by the NHS.

"An eye examination by an optometrist is a simple process and doesn't take long but it could have a significant impact on your child's vision. Children don't have to be able to read to have an eye examination, and the earlier any problems are picked up, the better."

:: For more information about children's eye care see lookafteryoureyes.org.