Vision problems in children

Key points to remember

• if you have concerns about your child's vision at any time, take your child for an assessment 
• if your child does have a vision problem, finding it early is good for their learning and development

What are the signs of a vision problem?

If your child:

• has learning or reading difficulties
• is clumsier than usual for their age
• screws their eyes up or tilts their head to see, or
• has frequent headaches

... this may mean they have a vision problem.

If you are concerned about your child's vision or eyes, it is important that you visit an eye-care professional.

Visiting your hospital eye clinic is free but you may need a letter from your family doctor to get an appointment. You may have to wait before you get an appointment.

There will be a cost to visit your local optometrist - there is some help available for families.

If your child does have a vision problem, finding it early is good for their learning and development.

What will it cost if my child has a vision problem?

If your child has a vision problem, there is a spectacles subsidy which can help with the costs of your child's:

• eye test
• glasses (frames and lenses)
• eye patches
• repairs

The subsidy is available for:

• any of your children, aged 15 or under
• but only if you have valid Community Services Card or your child has a current High Use Health Card

For more information about this subsidy:

• see the Ministry of Health's website page on the children's spectacle subsidy and the pamphlet Children's spectacle subsidy (PDF, 6.94MB)
• contact Enable New Zealand on 0800 17 1981 or email enable@enable.co.nz