Good vision and hearing are essential for a child's development and learning. Regular check ups can help detect any issues early, ensuring that your child can see and hear clearly. Vision problems like near sightedness or astigmatism, and hearing issues such as infections or hearing loss, can impact your child’s ability to engage at school and in social activities.
Pay attention to signs like squinting, sitting too close to screens, frequent ear infections, or difficulty following conversations. If you notice any concerns, consult a healthcare professional for further evaluation. Early intervention can make a significant difference in your child's quality of life and development.
All children should have a hearing screening at schools between the ages of 4 and 5. If hearing issues are not identified early, a child may experience difficulties with speech, language development, and learning. If you have concerns about your child’s hearing, you should contact your GP for further support. More information can be found below.
All children should have a vision screening at schools between the ages of 4 and 5. If vision issues are not identified early, a child may experience permanently reduced sight in one or both eyes. If you have concerns about your child’s eyesight, free NHS sight tests are available at opticians for children under 16 and for young people under 19 in full-time education. More information can be found below.