When you have a young child who isn't quite verbal yet, it can be hard to know when things are wrong. Although you may be able to tell if they have a cold or the stomach flu, there are other things that are a little bit more difficult to identify including vision problems. So, how can you tell if your young child needs to have their eyes examined by a pediatric eye care center? Read on. 

1. They Rub Their Eyes

It's beyond normal for young infants and toddlers to rub their eyes when they are tired, but it's not normal for them to do it all of the time. Oftentimes, when kids rub their eyes a lot it's a sign that they are trying to rub them so that they can see better. Before you take your child into the eye care center though, make sure that they don't have anything stuck in their eyes like dust or dirt. Then monitor them for a few days and make sure they are consistent with rubbing their eyes. 

2. They Are Tired a Lot

When a child is having difficulty seeing properly, they may exhibit more signs that they are tired than anything. When your eyes are blurry and are constantly trying to focus, it can cause eye strain. One of the most common side effects of eye strain is tiredness. Make sure that your child is getting enough sleep every night and that they are napping throughout the day. If they are getting both of those but still seem to be exceptionally tired, then it may be time for you to take them in. 

3. They Hold Things Close to Their Face

When tiny babies are first starting to hold things, they may place them really close to their face in order to see them better, but as they get older their eyes should adapt. If your baby or toddler is still holding just about everything really close to their face then they should have their eyes checked. When a child is unable to see things at a regular distance away, they are more likely to hold things close to their face so that they can memorize all of the details. 

If you notice any of these symptoms in your young child, don't freak out but just be mindful of them and have their eyes examined by a pediatric eye care center near you.