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Preschool Vision |
Getting a Visual "Head Start" The preschool years, ages 2 to 5, are a time when children gain and refine the visual abilities they will need in school and throughout their life. Steps taken during these years to ensure vision is developing normally can provide a child with a good "head start" for school. |
At this age, children are developing the visually-guided eye-hand-body coordination, fine motor skills, and visual perceptual abilities used to learn to read and write. Every experience a preschooler has is an opportunity for growth and development. Stacking blocks, rolling a ball back and forth, coloring, drawing, cutting, or assembling lock-together toys all help improve visual skills. Also, reading to young children helps them develop strong visualization skills as they "picture" the story in their minds. However, this is also the time when parents need to be alert for the presence of vision problems like crossed eyes or lazy eye. These conditions often develop at this age. The earlier they are detected and treated the more successful the outcome. |
Other signs of possible vision problems to look for include: |
l Sitting close to the TV or holding a book too close l Squinting l Tilting the head to see l Frequent eye rubbing l Short attention span for the child's age l Sensitivity to bright light l Difficulty coordinating eyes-hands-body |
when playing ball or bike riding |
l Avoiding coloring activities, puzzles, or other |
detailed activities |
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l Clumsy and often bumping into things |
Ultimate LEGO Duplo Building Set |
Parents should also watch their child for indication of any delays in development. Difficulty with recognition of colors, shapes, letters and numbers can be signs of a vision problem. If you notice any of these signs in your preschooler, arrange for a visit to your eye doctor. |
Tub of 71 colorful, durable LEGO bricks for little builders with big imaginations. |
The American Optometric Association recommends children have a thorough eye examination at age 3 to make sure their vision is developing properly. With today's diagnostic equipment and tests, children this age do not have to know the alphabet or how to read to have their eyes examined. A vision screening by your child's pediatrician or at pre-school is not the same as a comprehensive eye and vision examination. |
Passing a vision screening can give parents a false sense of security. Many preschool vision screenings only assess one or two areas of vision. They may not evaluate how well the child can focus his or her eyes or how well the eyes work together as a team. If possible, seek the services of an eye doctor who works extensively with children. They are generally more experienced in evaluating young children and will often provide a more in-depth visual assessment. Unless your eye doctor advises otherwise, your child's next eye examination should be at age 5. |
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Top Toys and Games |
Don't just buy any toy or game for a child. Provide an opportunity for vision development and learning. |
VTech Preschool Learning Tote and Go Laptop |
Program your preschooler for early learning with this realistic looking computer that features 30 engaging activities that teach language, math, music, and games. |
Richard Scarry's Busytown- Eye Found It! |
There's much for a child to see and discover in this game of hidden objects and mysteries. Promotes visual discrimination skills, attention to detail and teamwork. |