Youngsters may not realize they need glasses

March 17, 2011

While most parents are aware that proper vision is essential for kids, adults should be aware that some youngsters may be unaware that they need glasses. Kids do not have a concept of "blurry vision," because it is how they are used to seeing.

A recent article in PostStar.com tells the story of Charlie Yates, a 7-year-old at Tanglewood Elementary School in Glen Falls, New York. The child recently received his first pair of glasses, and he now has improved eyesight in the classroom.

"I don't think he know what blurry meant before he got his glasses," Charlie's mother, Cathy, told the news provider. "If you don't know any different, it's hard to tell whether things look correct or not, and even harder for us to realize as his parents."

The school nurse screened Charlie for vision last year, which was when the youngster's parents were first made aware of his vision problem.

According to The American Optometric Association, as much as 80 percent of school learning is done with one's eyes. Children should visit their eye doctor regularly to make sure they have good vision.