Does My Child Need Glasses? Signs & When to Get an Eye Exam

Jul 1, 2025 | Children's Eye Care, Eye Exams

Children often don’t realize when their vision isn’t normal. If they’ve never seen clearly, they may assume everyone else sees the same way. That’s why routine eye care is critical, especially once school begins. At Lemoncelli Eyecare, we provide eye exams for children ages 5 and up, focusing on early detection and personalized care. 

In this blog, we’ll explore key signs that could mean your child needs glasses and explain how a children’s eye exam in Nashville helps them succeed in school. 

The importance of early childhood eye exams 

Vision affects nearly everything children do, from reading and writing to playing sports and socializing. Your child’s vision can change rapidly over a short period, especially as school demands increase. If your child starts struggling to see clearly, prescription glasses may help them stay focused, confident, and engaged in the classroom. 

Many children adapt to vision problems without realizing anything is wrong. They may not mention blurry vision or eye strain because they think it’s normal. Regular comprehensive eye exams can detect hidden vision issues, especially as they enter or advance in school. 

Signs of vision problems in children 

Your child may not tell you they have trouble seeing, but their actions often say a lot. Watch for these common signs that your child may need glasses: 

  • Squinting or tilting the head 
  • Holding books or screens very close 
  • Frequent eye rubbing 
  • Complaining of headaches or tired eyes 
  • Sitting too close to the TV 
  • Losing their place while reading 
  • Difficulty focusing in class 
  • Avoiding reading or homework 
  • Trouble catching or tracking moving objects 

If you notice any of these signs, it’s a good idea to schedule an eye exam. Addressing vision problems early can prevent them from affecting academic performance or self-confidence. 

What happens if vision problems go untreated? 

Undiagnosed vision issues can cause more than just blurry vision. They can affect learning, attention, and behavior. A child who struggles to see may avoid reading, fall behind in school, or get frustrated with tasks that require visual effort. 

Over time, uncorrected vision problems can also lead to eye strain, headaches, or poor eye coordination. In some cases, untreated issues can even impact long-term visual development. Regular exams allow us to catch changes early and help your child see clearly and comfortably. 

Schedule your child’s eye exam today 

Trust your instincts as a parent. If you notice any signs that suggest vision problems, or if your child complains about difficulty seeing, schedule an eye exam promptly. Early intervention often leads to better outcomes and can prevent vision problems from impacting your child’s academic performance and quality of life. 

To schedule an appointment for your child, please give us a call at 629-258-2000 or use our online scheduler.