Strabismus is when the eyes are not aligned and do not point in the same direction. In children, early diagnosis and treatment are vital to protect sight and depth perception.
Understanding childhood strabismus
Children may be born with a squint or develop one later. The brain may begin to ignore the image from one eye to avoid double vision, which can lead to a lazy eye.
- Parents may notice one eye turning in, out, up, or down.
- Some children close one eye in bright light or tilt their head.
- Vision testing checks for amblyopia, where one eye sees less clearly.
- Glasses, sometimes with prisms, are often the first step in treatment.
- Certain cases need eye muscle surgery to improve alignment.
Why early care matters
Timely treatment gives the best chance of strong vision in both eyes. Children adapt quickly, so small changes can make big differences to school and play.
- Patching or blurring the stronger eye can encourage the weaker eye to work.
- Regular reviews track visual development and adjust treatment plans.
- Operations on the eye muscles are usually day-case procedures.
- Good alignment supports confidence, eye contact, and social interaction.
- Parents should seek assessment if they notice any persistent eye turn.
