What is a common sign that a child may need a vision exam?

Frequent headaches can be a common sign that a child may need a vision exam because they may indicate that the child is experiencing visual strain or discomfort when trying to see clearly. As children engage in activities that require focusing, such as reading or using a computer, vision problems can lead to eye fatigue, leading to headaches. This symptom can be particularly pronounced when a child is using their eyes for extended periods or is straining to see, often caused by uncorrected refractive errors like nearsightedness or farsightedness. Early detection through a vision exam can help resolve these issues before they impact the child's learning and overall development.

While delayed speech, difficulty sitting still, and increased appetite may also warrant evaluation, they are not as directly related to vision issues as frequent headaches. Delayed speech could be tied to developmental factors, difficulty sitting still might pertain to attention issues, and increased appetite generally does not correlate with visual problems. Therefore, frequent headaches stand out as a significant indicator that a child might need a vision assessment.