5 Signs Your Child Should Have a Myopia Evaluation

Myopia, commonly known as nearsightedness, is becoming increasingly common in children - and it often progresses quickly during the school-age years. Early detection is key, as myopia doesn’t just affect how clearly your child sees today; it can impact their long-term eye health as they grow.

Knowing the early warning signs can help parents take action before vision problems begin to interfere with learning, confidence, and daily life. Below are five important signs that your child may benefit from a professional myopia evaluation.

1. Squinting or Sitting Too Close to Screens

If your child squints to see the TV, moves very close to tablets or books, or struggles to see distant objects clearly, this may be an early sign of myopia. Squinting temporarily sharpens vision, so children often do this without realizing there’s an underlying issue. These behaviors are especially common in classrooms, where difficulty seeing the board may go unnoticed unless specifically evaluated.

2. Complaints of Blurry Distance Vision

Children may not always know how to describe vision problems clearly, but statements like “I can’t see the board,” “Things look fuzzy far away,” or “I see better up close” can point toward developing myopia. Because children often assume their vision is normal, they may not speak up right away - making routine pediatric eye exams and targeted evaluations especially important.

3. Frequent Headaches or Eye Strain

Uncorrected or progressing myopia can cause eye strain, particularly after school or extended visual tasks. If your child frequently complains of headaches, tired eyes, or discomfort after reading or screen time, their eyes may be working harder than they should. These symptoms are often mistaken for fatigue or stress but can be linked directly to vision changes.

4. Declining School Performance or Attention Issues

Vision plays a major role in learning. Difficulty seeing the board, reading assignments, or participating in classroom activities can affect academic performance and concentration.

If a teacher mentions attention issues, avoidance of visual tasks, or changes in academic performance, a comprehensive eye exam may help identify whether vision is a contributing factor.

5. Family History of Myopia

Genetics play a significant role in myopia development. If one or both parents are nearsighted, a child is at a higher risk of developing myopia - often at a younger age and with faster progression. Even if your child hasn’t shown obvious symptoms yet, a family history alone is a strong reason to schedule proactive myopia monitoring.

Why Early Myopia Evaluation Matters

Myopia often worsens as children grow, particularly during elementary and middle school years. Early evaluation allows eye doctors to monitor changes closely and discuss proactive management options designed to slow progression - not just correct vision. Addressing myopia early can help reduce the risk of higher prescriptions and potential eye health complications later in life.

Schedule Your Child’s Eye Exam Today

Myopia can develop subtly, but its long-term impact can be significant if left unmanaged. Recognizing the early signs can make a meaningful difference in your child’s visual development.

Contact Advanced Eyecare Consultants to schedule your child’s myopia evaluation and take an important step toward protecting their long-term vision. Visit our office in Libertyville or Lake Zurich, Illinois. Please call (847) 994-4500 or (847) 438-7700 to book an appointment today.