In this article, we’ll explore common signs that your toddler may have a vision or hearing issue. By the end, you’ll know how to spot them early, which can ensure they receive the right support before they become a problem. So, let’s get started.

Vision Issues

Your child's eyes are their window to the world, and sometimes they need a little extra care. Here are some signs this may be the case:

Eye Strain and Squinting: If your child often squints or rubs their eyes, it could be a sign of eye strain. Also, watch out for head tilts or trouble following moving objects.

Frequent Eye Rubbing: In toddlers under 18 months, persistent eye rubbing might indicate discomfort or vision problems. It could be due to allergies or vision errors that need attention.

Poor Eye-Hand Coordination: Trouble catching or throwing objects, along with difficulties in fine motor skills like writing or drawing, could point to vision issues. Sometimes, it's tough for them to judge distances accurately.

Frequent Headaches: Toddlers with vision issues might get these after activities like reading or screen time. If these headaches persist or worsen, it's time to see a doctor.

Hearing Issues

Now, let's talk about hearing. Their little ears are crucial for language and communication.

Check for these signs:

Delayed Language Development: A toddler with hearing trouble may not hit his speech and language milestones.

Oblivious to Sounds: Consistently ignoring loud noises or not turning their head towards familiar sounds might signal hearing difficulties. They might also seem unsure of how to respond when their name is called.

Frequent Ear Infections: Repeated ear infections can mess with a child's hearing. If your child deals with ear aches often, has fluid draining from the ear, or gets infections over and over, it's time to see a doctor.

Difficulty Following Instructions: Hearing issues might make it hard for your toddler to understand simple instructions. They may ask for you to repeat yourself or get upset in noisy environments.

Behavioural Signs

Behaviour can reveal other indicators:

Lack of Eye Contact: If your child avoids eye contact or has trouble maintaining it, vision or social communication challenges may be the causes.

Withdrawn or Isolated Behaviour: Vision or hearing problems can affect social interactions. If your child starts to withdraw from social activities or becomes isolated, it could be because they're having trouble perceiving or communicating.

Frustration or Irritability: Toddlers with undiagnosed vision or hearing issues may show signs of upset, especially during activities that demand visual or auditory attention.

What are signs of potential vision or hearing issues in toddlers?

Unii’s Toddler Health & Development Journey shares red flags for vision and hearing issues.