Look through a child’s eyes and you may be surprised at what you see. Or don’t see.

An estimated 10 million children suffer vision problems, according to the National Parent Teacher Association. And Prevent Blindness America reports that one in 20 preschoolers and one in four school-age children have vision problems.

But even if little Johnny or Jenny can’t see, they’re unlikely to say so.

“Even if they have bad eyes, they think everyone sees that way,” says Dr. Kim Gorman, who practices at The Spec Shoppe in Maryville, Mo., three days a week.

Eye exams for children are important, especially considering many vision problems begin early, experts say. The Missouri Optometric Association recommends that babies have their first eye exam at 6 months of age, then again at age 3 and before entering first grade. Those with vision problems may require more frequent visits.

Just recently, Gov. Matt Blunt signed the Children’s Vision Law, which requires all children in kindergarten and first grade who are entering Missouri schools for the first time to have an eye exam. The law also requires children in first and third grades to have a vision screening.

Even before the screening or exam, there are signs that parents can watch for that can indicate a vision problem.

Dr. Gorman, who has 30 years of experience in the optometric field, says parents should be aware of the following: rubbing the eyes a lot, turning the head to one side, closing or covering one eye, running into things, tripping and falling and holding items close to the eyes to see. A trip to the doctor is in order if your child exhibits any of the signs. Parents also need to be aware that their children need regular eye care even if they don’t show any outward signs of a vision problem, Prevent Blindness America states.

Now, a trip to a doctor, even an eye doctor, can be a scary experience for a child. Dr. Gorman tries to put her young patients at ease.

“I don’t wear my white coat,” she says.

If a child is crying, then the child can’t be examined. So, young children can sit on mom’s lap for the exam. The room isn’t kept as dark as usual and the children are allowed to handle some of the instruments, Dr. Gorman says.

“I let them interact with the exam,” she says.

With proper eye care, the world your child sees should be a clear one.

Lifestyles reporter Cathy Woolridge can be reached at cathyw@npgco.com