Does my child need glasses? These are the signs you should look out for in everyday life

Blond boy with glasses

Whether your child needs glasses cannot be reliably determined without an eye examination, but there are some factors that increase the likelihood of vision problems and certain signs in everyday life that can tell you that your child needs glasses.

In general, our MANTI MANTI opticians recommend - in addition to the U and school suitability examinations - regular check-ups by an ophthalmologist. You can find out at what age exactly in this article .

Hereditary and health factors

First, let’s look at the factors that can increase the risk of vision problems or eye diseases:

1. Family history

Children of parents, grandparents or siblings with high visual impairments (nearsightedness or farsightedness) or eye diseases may also be at increased risk for similar vision problems because the problems may be genetic.

2. Prematurity

Babies born prematurely are at higher risk for a variety of health problems, including vision problems. By the end of pregnancy, the retinas of babies born prematurely simply do not have enough time to fully develop, increasing the risk of complications such as retinopathy of prematurity (ROP).

3. Diabetes in the family

Children with a family history of diabetes may be at increased risk for diabetes-related eye problems.

4. Illnesses of the child

Children with certain conditions such as Down syndrome or neurological disorders may be at higher risk for vision problems.

    It is important to note that the factors mentioned may increase the risk, but they do not necessarily mean that a child will definitely develop vision problems. Regular monitoring by an ophthalmologist is advisable in any case.

    Signs in everyday life

    There are a few signs that may indicate that a child needs glasses. Here too, a visit to an ophthalmologist is necessary to confirm or, at best, to give the all-clear:

    1. Frequent eye rubbing

    Children with vision problems such as nearsightedness or farsightedness may have difficulty seeing things clearly at a distance or close up. By rubbing, they try to soothe their strained eyes and improve their vision.

    2. Headache

    Children who have difficulty seeing sometimes complain of headaches. Uncorrected vision problems such as farsightedness or astigmatism lead to unclear perception, double vision and strain, which can then cause fatigue and/or headaches.

    3. Problems with near and far

    If your child holds books or other objects very close to their face or cannot see things well in the distance, this could indicate vision problems. The other way round: If they hold things far away from their face to see them or cannot see things well up close, it is time for an appointment at the eye clinic.

    4. Difficulties at school

    Problems with reading, writing or participating in class can indicate vision problems. Poor vision can negatively affect children's general motivation and concentration and thus their school performance.

    5. Light sensitivity

    Excessive sensitivity to light in children can indicate various vision problems or eye diseases, including inflammation, muscle problems or even migraines. An accurate diagnosis by an ophthalmologist is important to identify the underlying causes.

    6. Squinting or eye twitching

    Obvious signs such as squinting or twitching of the eyes can indicate vision problems.

    7. Red or watery eyes

    Eyes that are often red or watery could indicate eye strain or other vision problems.

      If you notice one or more of these signs in your child, it is advisable to consult an eye doctor.

      I'm not sure. What now?

      A professional eye test can also determine your child's exact visual acuity and whether glasses are necessary. It is important to identify and treat vision problems early to ensure the best possible vision quality and overall development of your child.

      You can find out how to find a good ophthalmologist in this article .

      Does your child need glasses?

      Blonde girl with glasses

      Does your child need glasses? Then take a look at our sustainable, light, robust and cool MANTI MANTI models. They are currently available in 6 models, 9 colors and 3 sizes each. Here you can find an overview of our children's glasses .

      And with our easy peasy fitting box you can order up to 5 different pairs of glasses to your home and try them out for 7 days. You only pay for shipping.

      If you have any questions, please book an online appointment with our specialist staff or visit us in our showroom in Berlin-Kreuzberg , in our store in Hamburg-Eppendorf or at one of our partner opticians across Germany . We will be happy to advise you.