Child trying on glasses at Direct Vision Opticians Birmingham

Signs your child might need glasses

July 3, 2025

Children rarely tell you they can't see properly. They don't know what "normal" looks like, so a blurry board or a tired feeling when reading just seems like the way things are. That's why it helps to know the signs, and to book regular eye tests even when nothing seems wrong.

Signs to look out for

Squinting or screwing up their eyes to see
Sitting very close to the TV, or holding books and tablets close to their face
Rubbing their eyes a lot, or complaining of tired eyes
Headaches, especially after school or reading
Tilting their head or covering one eye
Losing their place when reading, or using a finger to follow the words
Avoiding reading, drawing or close-up activities
Seeming clumsy, or struggling to catch a ball
Saying they can't see the board at school, or a teacher mentioning it

If one eye seems to turn in or out, even occasionally, book an eye test soon. A turn (a squint) can be linked to a lazy eye, which responds best to treatment while a child is young.

When should a child have their first eye test?

Children can have an eye test at any age, and they don't need to know their letters. We recommend a first test before they start school, and sooner if you notice any of the signs above or there's a family history of squints, lazy eye or strong glasses. The vision screening some children have at school is a useful check but isn't a full eye examination.

After that, children should usually have an eye test every year, because their eyes change as they grow.

What happens at a children's eye test?

Children's appointments with us are about 20 minutes, with after-school slots. We use pictures, shapes and games for younger children, check how the eyes work together, and look at the health of the eyes. Read more on our children's eye tests page.

Is it free?

Yes. NHS eye tests are free for all under 16s and for 16 to 18 year olds in full-time education. If your child needs glasses, they'll get an NHS voucher: choose free glasses from our children's range, or upgrade from £29. See kids' and teens' glasses.

Short-sighted and getting worse?

If your child is short-sighted and their prescription keeps getting stronger, ask about Zeiss MyoCare, spectacle lenses designed to slow the progression of short-sightedness in children. We offer a free consultation to see whether it's suitable.