It is with the help of the five main senses (sight, hearing, touch, smell, taste) that your child discovers the world and carries out fundamental learning that will enable them to develop.
From birth, your child already possesses several basic sensory abilities that will be perfected throughout their childhood. Subsequently, the rapid growth of the nervous system, i.e., the brain and the perceptual system, will enable the child to acquire a more confident and refined control of the senses.
Vision plays a role in all stages of a child's development and learning. The possible consequences of not addressing vision problems range from learning-related frustration to learning at a slower pace than other children, which can lead to possible special education needs.
Here are some tips to stimulate your child's vision.
For toddlers:
- Use toys and games to stimulate vision, for example, mirrors and mobiles, stacking cups and rings, using animated toys;
- Use hardcover books with bright colours and large pictures;
- Play "peek-a-boo";
- Use everyday objects with bright or contrasting colors such as black and white;
- Make sure they have a complete eye exam between the ages of 6 and 12 months.
For preschoolers:
This is the most important time for vision development in children.
- Use toys and games to stimulate vision such as puzzles, mazes, dot-to-dot games, books, construction toys, bilboquet, card games, where's Charlie?
- Read with your child daily;
- Limit your child's screen time;
- Make sure the child has a good diet and enough rest as these contribute to the development of a healthy brain and eyes;
- Make sure they have a complete eye exam every year or as recommended by an optometrist.
School-age children:
- Intersperse study and screen time with relaxing activities, preferably outdoors;
- Ensure breaks after no more than 60 minutes of use, preferably after 30 minutes;
- Ensure the use of protective eyewear for sports activities such as hockey, badminton or martial arts;
- Provide good lighting and reduce glare on screens and books;
- Create a workspace that promotes good posture (sitting upright) and ensure that the reading distance is sufficient (at least 30-40 cm);
- Ensure that they have a thorough visual examination every year.
