January/February play themes

We are focusing on eye health at the moment! Come and play in our opticians shop - try on a range of frames and see how you look, or try out our eye charts. We are also making some very trendy glasses - you can decorate your own frames and put coloured cellophane lenses in! We will be playing games to do with 'looking for things' and noticing what we can see around us.

Leaflets and advice for parents have kindly been provided by Hallcroft opticians (01509 650666), and we have reproduced their advice on children's eye care below.

Children's Eye Care - provided by Hallcroft Opticians

Did you know that 80% of what your son or daughter learns comes to them visually?

Some common eye conditions are treatable if diagnosed at an early age.

Things to be aware of that may indicate your child needing their eyes tested include:

• Consistently sitting to close to the TV or holding a book too close
• Losing his/her place while reading
• Using a finger to follow along while reading
• Tilting the head to see better
• Frequent eye rubbing
• Sensitivity to light
• Excessive tearing
• Closing one eye to read/see better/watch TV
• Avoiding reading or playing ball games
• Complaining of headaches/tired eyes

Frequently Asked Questions:

When should I take my child for a test? - The sooner the better, even if you do not detect any of the above things as they may have a lazy eye which is difficult for the untrained person to detect.

My child cannot read or does not know their letters - This is not a problem. We have other ways of testing their eyes without relying on reading letters.

How much does it cost? The test itself is free under the NHS. If they need spectacles, and NHS voucher is issued to cover the whole cost or part payment.