Good academic performance is not solely the result of intelligence and hard work, nor is it just about time management, perseverance, or a supportive family environment—though these are undeniably important. There are often overlooked factors that can impact a student’s ability to perform well, such as their physical and mental health. For instance, vision problems, caused by excessive screen time, nutritional deficiencies, or underlying neurological issues, can impact focus and learning by straining a child’s ability to read, write, or concentrate.
Agreeing to this, Dr Srujana Hitesh, Consultant Ophthalmologist, Myopia Specialist and Phaco Surgeon, Sharat Maxivision Eye Hospitals, Warangal, not only explains the link between poor vision and academic performance but also shares certain tips for parents to mitigate the risk.
Also Read: Myth Or Fact: Spending Time In Green Environment Improves Eyesight
How Can Poor Vision Impact A Child’s Academic Performance?
Poor vision can significantly affect a child’s academic performance and overall development. Some of the common ways include:
- Difficulty in reading, writing, or seeing the board, which can lead to lower grades, reduced performance, and reduced participation in class.
- Impact on social interactions, child’s self-esteem, and confidence to interact with a peer group.
- Delayed motor and cognitive skill development, limited extracurricular participation, and even behavioural issues.
In one study published in the Asia-Pacific Journal of Ophthalmology, researchers reviewed 25 studies to understand how uncorrected hyperopia, or farsightedness, and its correction with glasses affect children’s academic performance. Farsightedness is a common eye condition that makes it difficult to see objects that are close up. The study found that uncorrected hyperopia slightly lowers educational performance and has a moderate negative impact on reading skills compared to children with normal vision. Hyperopic children also performed worse in reading skills than myopic children.
However, more research is needed to fully understand the benefits of correcting hyperopia on academic performance.
Impact Of Screen Time On Vision And How To Mitigate The Risks
According to Dr Hitesh, prolonged screen time can cause digital eye strain, characterised by dry eyes, headaches, and difficulty focusing. He says that excessive screen time increases the risk of myopia onset and fast progression.
Studies have also shown that screen time, especially from computers, significantly contributes to myopia in children. Research published in BMC Public Health reviewed 19 studies on screen time and myopia in children and adolescents, analysing data from 7,571 records. It found a significant link between higher screen time and increased myopia risk, with odds ratios of 2.24 for cross-sectional and 2.39 for cohort studies. Each additional hour of screen time raised the risk by 7%.
To mitigate these effects:
- Limit daily screen time based on age-appropriate guidelines.
- Ensure screens are positioned at eye level and about 18–24 inches away.
- Use blue light filters on devices or glasses.
- Encourage frequent breaks, such as the 20-20-20 rule.
- Create a tech-free bedtime routine to promote better sleep.
Common Signs Of Vision Problems In Children
Some of the common signs and symptoms of vision problems in children include:
- Squinting or tilting the head to see better
- Holding books or devices very close to their face
- Complaints of headaches, eye strain, or blurred vision
- Frequent eye rubbing or excessive blinking
- Difficulty focusing on tasks or avoiding reading and writing
- Poor hand-eye coordination or clumsiness
- Struggling with schoolwork or a sudden decline in academic performance
How Parents Can Protect Their Children’s Vision For Better Academic Performance
For parents whose children are at risk of developing poor vision, here are some strategies to adopt:
- Schedule regular eye exams: Early detection can address issues before they impact development.
- Encourage outdoor play: Exposure to natural light can help reduce the risk of myopia (nearsightedness).
- Promote good reading habits: Ensure proper lighting and an appropriate reading distance.
- Limit screen time: Follow the 20-20-20 rule—every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds.
- Teach eye hygiene: Encourage children to avoid touching or rubbing their eyes with dirty hands.
- Provide protective eyewear: Use appropriate glasses or goggles for sports and outdoor activities.
Conclusion
Poor vision can have a significant impact on a child’s academic performance. It can affect their ability to read, write, and focus in class, as well as their overall development. Factors such as excessive screen time, uncorrected refractive errors like hyperopia, and inadequate eye care can all contribute to these issues. With the right strategies, parents can safeguard their children’s vision. These include scheduling regular eye exams, encouraging outdoor activities, promoting healthy screen habits, and encouraging good reading practices.Take these steps to reduce the risk of vision problems and consult with a doctor or ophthalmologist for better guidance.
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