Don't let eye troubles hinder student learning

First, a disclaimer:

No advertiser has influenced the choice of a topic for today's editorial.

That doesn't mean the Gazette doesn't have a vested interest in the subject, however.

That's because we depend on our readers being able to -- well, read -- our product, whether it's the version that's printed on paper or published online.

Speaking of the physical version, our "body type" is extra large with a nod to readers who, like a number of our staff, have a little trouble with small type.

It's the other end of the age spectrum we're concerned about today, however.

According to the American Optometric Association, poor eye sight is a factor with more than half of the children who have learning disabilities.

Think about it; how many times have you taken a selfie or a quick photo with your smartphone only to fine that the result is fuzzy. If you check the lens, you'll notice it's smeared with grease from that last order of french fries or foggy with a fingerprint.

Now imagine sitting in the sixth row of desks, straining to make out words on the illustration for today's lesson with that same sort of view.

If you've never had an eye checkup, you might not know the difference -- we once heard of a girl who didn't know you were supposed to be able to see the individual leaves on a tree.

It's good that schools provide eye screenings, but the AOA recommends parents not rely solely on such exams.

Parents should watch for signs that their child may have eye problems as they:

* Avoid reading whenever possible

* Attempt but do not completely comprehend school assignments.

* Have short attention spans

* Have frequent eye rubbing, blinking or headaches

* Move their head sideways or covering one eye in order to see

* Hold reading materials very near their faces

* Eyes appear to look in different directions or tilt in or out.

Computers and tablets are ubiquitous these days, but they present their own dangers for kids developing eyes.

According to the AOA kids may not realize how much time they spend on a computer, which can lead to eye focusing and eyestrain problems. Kids are adaptable, but that means they think abnormal vision is normal.

While your kids are still home for summer, and even after they are back at school, make sure they take plenty of breaks from computer, tablet and smartphone use for physical activities. The AOA recommends no more than two hours a day of computer use.

All the more reason to make sure your kids have regular eye exams.

As kids go back to school, let's make sure nothing is standing in the way of them learning as much as possible.