Basics For Learning
Vision Development and Reading
In most cases, a child is able to see 20/20 and recognize colors by the age of 4 months and by 2 years of age the child’s visual system should be properly aligned while actively focusing on and tracking objects.
Given these facts, the basic visual function of a child can be evaluated before the age of 2 and in some cases, it is important to evaluate the child’s eye as early as 6 weeks of age.
To ensure visual reading readiness, a child should have his/her first eye examination by an optometrist or ophthalmologist before the age of four. During this examination, a child should be tested for their ability to see 20/20, to focus and align their eyes accurately on a target and to follow a target smoothly and efficiently, as well as, determining whether the child is using both eyes equally.
Children, who do not see well, focus accurately or are unable to track a target smoothly will have a more difficult time learning to read and will most likely read more slowly, and tend to loss his/her place when reading.
Although important, a school screening or a screening by your pediatrician or family physician is not adequate.
Dr. Corwyn Mosiman
Optometrist