Good vision is essential for a child’s overall development, influencing their ability to walk, read, and engage with the world around them. Unfortunately, a significant number of children in Fiji do not undergo eye examinations during their early years, leading to potential delays in identifying vision problems that could be easily treated if caught in time. Regular eye check-ups represent not only a health necessity but also a crucial investment in a child’s future.
Eye development begins at birth, underscoring the importance of early eye examinations. Many parents may be unaware that the first eye check-up is recommended when a child is about six months old. Skilled optometrists can evaluate infants’ eye alignment, focus, and visual responses using specialized techniques tailored for the very young, even in cases where babies are unable to communicate their visual needs. This early evaluation can reveal conditions such as congenital cataracts, severe refractive errors, or eye muscle issues.
A follow-up examination is typically advised around three years of age—a pivotal time when children start to identify shapes, colors, and letters. This stage is critical for diagnosing vision problems like amblyopia (lazy eye), strabismus (crossed eyes), or astigmatism, as interventions are most effective when initiated early. Treatment for lazy eye, for instance, shows the best success if addressed before the age of seven; beyond this window, the risk of permanent vision impairment increases.
Before they enter school, generally around five to six years old, it’s vital for children to undergo a comprehensive eye examination. Research demonstrates that approximately 80 percent of classroom learning relies on good eyesight. Children who have difficulty seeing the board, reading, or maintaining focus might not be displaying behavioral challenges but instead could be struggling with undiagnosed vision issues.
In this digital era, children’s increased screen time can lead to symptoms like eye strain, headaches, and blurred vision. Extended periods of near work may also contribute to the growing prevalence of myopia (short-sightedness) among children globally.
Parents should be attentive to behavioral indicators that signal possible vision difficulties. Signs such as persistent eye rubbing, squinting, sitting too close to screens, or covering one eye can all suggest underlying issues. In the classroom, children facing unrecognized vision problems might seem distracted, take longer to complete tasks, or show a lack of interest in reading. Since many children unknowingly accept their visual limitations and are unlikely to express concerns, the responsibility falls on parents and guardians to stay observant.
The good news is that most eye conditions in children are treatable when detected early. Interventions can involve corrective glasses, patching therapy for lazy eye, and other proactive measures that can help avoid permanent visual impairment. Optometrists are essential in this journey, providing accurate assessments, necessary treatments, and ongoing care.
As healthcare access continues to improve in Fiji, prioritizing children’s eye health must become a focus. An eye examination has the potential to uncover significant issues that could impact a child’s vision for years to come. By ensuring that children receive regular check-ups at six months, three years, and prior to starting school, parents can help grant their children the invaluable gift of clear vision—facilitating better learning outcomes and opening doors to future opportunities. Clear vision cultivates learning, boosts confidence, and enhances a child’s potential, highlighting the profound impact of simple yet strategic health practices on a child’s development.