Where to start
I am concerned my child has a vision problem.
It is very common for a child to have a problem with their eyesight and many problems can be sorted out by them being given a pair of glasses.
How do I know if my child has a problem?
Your child may complain of headaches, sore eyes or they may be finding things difficult at school and may be falling behind with their work. If your child is not yet at school you may be concerned that they have more bumps and falls than you would expect for a child their age. If your child goes to a nursery or a school talk to someone there who know them well and see if they have concerns.
All nurseries and schools will have a Special Educational Needs and Disability Co-ordinator (SENDCo), who is the person in the nursery or school who works with and helps children who require additional support. Ask your child's school or nursery who this person is and talk to them about your concerns.
In the first instance you should also take your child to the optician. If there is a problem they will refer you to the specialist at the hospital.
Your health visitor is also available until your child is 6 (until the end of your child's reception year at school). They will help you to understand the issues and help you to decide the best course of action.
How do I know if my child has a hearing problem?
Your child may mishear things you say to them or not respond when you talk to them. You may notice that your child has become quieter than usual or withdrawn. Alternatively you may be feeling that your child is becoming frustrated and have noticed changes in their behaviour. Your child's speech may not be as clear as it was or you may be worried that your child is not yet talking, they may be finding things difficult at school and may be falling behind with their work. If your child goes to a nursery or a school talk to someone there who know them well and see if they have concerns.
All nurseries and schools will have a SENDCo, who is the person in the school who works with and helps children who require additional support. Ask your child's school or nursery who this person is and talk to them about your concerns.
You should also take your child to your doctor, who will refer them to a specialist at the hospital.
Your health visitor is also available until your child is 6 (until the end of your child's Reception year at school). They will help you to understand the issues and help you to decide the best course of action.
