What signs mean I should ask for hearing or vision screening? 

Parenting Perspective 

Parents sometimes sense something is off long before a report confirms it. A child may be bright and curious, yet struggle to follow instructions, appear inattentive, or mix up details during class or play. When such challenges persist despite consistent routines, it is worth considering whether a sensory factor, like hearing or vision, might be at play. 

Subtle clues for hearing and vision 

Common clues are subtle. Hearing difficulties can look like frequent requests for repetition, misunderstanding similar-sounding words, or tuning out when background noise rises. Some children watch others’ faces closely for cues or raise the volume on devices without realising. 

Vision difficulties, on the other hand, might surface through squinting, sitting too close to screens, rubbing eyes, or skipping lines when reading. Teachers may describe daydreaming or distraction, when in fact the child is simply trying to make sense of blurred input. 

Before assuming behavioural or attention issues, it is valuable to pause and ask, could my child be missing information rather than ignoring it? Early screening protects confidence and prevents unnecessary frustration. Unidentified hearing or vision issues can quietly chip away at motivation, cause tension in parent–child interactions, and make ordinary tasks feel harder than they should. 

Building a clearer picture 

A simple record can help separate observation from assumption. Over two weeks, note when and where difficulties appear: 

• Does your child respond more easily in quiet spaces than noisy ones? 

• Do headaches or eye rubbing occur after reading or device use? 

• Does confusion increase in group instructions but not in one-to-one moments? 

Patterns across settings strengthen your case when you approach professionals. Teachers can also add detail about how your child manages in class. 

Micro-action: Create an observation log 

Create a short observation log listing incidents that made you wonder about hearing or vision. Keep notes factual rather than emotional, and share these with your GP, optometrist, or school nurse. 

This approach reduces self-blame or blame toward the child. Instead of framing the issue as disobedience, it reframes it as information gathering: something in the environment may be getting in the way of my child’s understanding. 

Spiritual Insight 

In Islam, safeguarding health and wellbeing is part of stewardship over the bodies and minds Allah Almighty has entrusted us with. Parents who notice subtle changes in their children and seek clarity are fulfilling that trust with care and vigilance. 

Allah Almighty states in the noble Quran at Surah Al Israa (17), Verses 36: 

‘And do not pursue (to meddle in matters) with which you have no knowledge; indeed, your hearing (everything you heard), your sight (everything you observed), your conscience (everything you thought), in fact, all of these (your faculties) shall be called for questioning (on the Day of Judgment).’ 

This verse invites reflection on responsibility. Hearing, sight, and understanding are not only physical faculties but also moral trusts. Overlooking them, whether through neglect or denial, means allowing unseen burdens to grow. A screening is not just medical diligence; it is an act of guardianship that upholds the child’s right to clarity and comfort in learning. 

It is recorded in Sahih Muslim, Hadith 1829a, that the holy Prophet Muhammad `ﷺ` said: 

‘Every one of you is a shepherd, and every one of you will be asked about his flock.’ 

When we respond to early signs with calm curiosity, we honour this responsibility. Seeking medical help does not diminish faith; it strengthens it by uniting dua with action. Parents who take these steps show their children that Islam values proactive care and humility before Allah Almighty’s guidance. 

The real wisdom lies not in fearing what screening may reveal but in the peace of knowing we acted with insight and love. Each small decision to clarify rather than assume keeps our children’s trust strong and their hearts open to learning. Through this gentle vigilance, parents become the very embodiment of mercy, protecting not only their child’s senses but also their sense of being truly seen.