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Understanding Common Childhood Vision Issues

Edmonton Eye Doctors

12-10-2025

As optometrists serving families across Edmonton, one of the most important parts of our work is identifying and managing common vision issues in children. Many parents are surprised to learn that kids often won’t complain about vision problems - they may not even realize anything is wrong. That’s why regular child eye exams are so critical during childhood. Below, we’ll walk you through three of the most common vision conditions we see in kids in Edmonton: myopia, amblyopia, and strabismus. We’ll explain what they are, how to spot them, and what treatment options are available.

Myopia (Nearsightedness)

What Is Myopia?

Myopia, or nearsightedness, is a condition where distant objects appear blurry, while close-up objects remain clear. It usually develops in school-age children and tends to worsen over time, especially during growth spurts.

Why Myopia Is A Concern in Edmonton

We’re seeing a steady rise in childhood myopia, which may be linked to increased screen time and less time spent outdoors—factors that are relevant here in Edmonton, where our long winters keep kids indoors for much of the year.

Signs Of Myopia To Watch For

• Squinting to see the board at school
• Sitting too close to the TV or holding books very close
• Frequent headaches or eye strain
• Falling behind in class or seeming uninterested in reading

Myopia Treatment In Edmonton

Glasses or contact lenses can correct myopia, but myopia control eyewear options are also available to slow its progression. These include myopia control eyeglasses with Hoya MiYOSMART Myopia Control Lenses, orthokeratology (ortho-k) lenses, specialized soft contact lenses, and low-dose atropine drops—all of which are available at Eye-deology Vision Care. Learn more about myopia management at Eye-deology Vision Care

Amblyopia (Lazy Eye)

What Is Amblyopia?

Amblyopia occurs when one eye doesn’t develop proper vision, often due to a difference in prescription or an eye alignment issue. The brain starts to favor the stronger eye, which can lead to long-term vision problems if untreated.

Common Causes Of Amblyopia

• Significant difference in prescription between the two eyes
• Strabismus (eye misalignment)
• Cataracts or other obstructions in one eye (less common)

Signs Of Amblyopia To Watch For:

• One eye drifting inward or outward
• Poor depth perception
• Squinting or closing one eye to see
• Trouble with eye-hand coordination

Treatment For Amblyopia

Treatment is most effective when started early, usually before age 7. Options include:

• Patching the stronger eye to strengthen the weaker one
• Prescription glasses or contact lenses
• Vision therapy to improve coordination between the eyes

In Edmonton, many optometrists now offer in-office vision therapy for amblyopia, which can be a great option for families looking for guided treatment beyond patching alone.

Strabismus (Crossed or Misaligned Eyes)

What Is Strabismus?

Strabismus is a condition where the eyes are not properly aligned—one may turn in, out, up, or down. It can affect depth perception and lead to amblyopia if not corrected.

Why Early Detection Of Strabismus Matters

In young children, strabismus can be corrected much more easily than in adults. Untreated, it can lead to permanent vision loss in the affected eye.

Signs of Strabisumus To Watch For

• Eyes that appear misaligned, especially when tired
• Tilting or turning the head to look at things
• Complaints of double vision
• Closing one eye in bright sunlight

Treatment For Strabisumus

Depending on the cause and severity, treatments may include: Prescription lenses (especially if farsightedness is a factor) Vision therapy Eye muscle surgery in more advanced cases Many local optometrists in Edmonton work in collaboration with pediatric ophthalmologists to co-manage strabismus cases when surgery is needed.

Why Annual Child Eye Exams Are Essential

Many vision issues in children are treatable if caught early, but without regular comprehensive child eye exams, they can go unnoticed for years. In Alberta, comprehensive annual eye exams for children under 19 are covered by Alberta Health Care, making it easy and affordable for Edmonton families to stay on top of their children’s eye health.

Eye-deology Vision Care Is Here to Help

If you live in the Edmonton area and have concerns about your child’s vision, or if they haven’t had an eye exam in the past year, book an appointment with one of our optometrists. We’re here to support your child’s visual development at every stage. Your child’s eyes are their window to the world. Let’s keep their vision strong and healthy—starting today.

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