Going back to school every year can be very stressful for both parents and children. Shopping for all the school supplies and making sure that your children are prepared can be challenging. However, there is one thing that should not be overlooked and that is your child’s eye health. Scheduling a comprehensive eye exam before the school year starts ensures your child’s eyes are healthy and they are seeing their best. In this blog post, we will discuss why a back-to-school eye exam is essential for every child.
1. Identify vision issues early
Did you know that one in four children has an undiagnosed eye condition? Many vision issues can go undetected in children as they do not realize they have a problem. An eye exam can detect any vision issues early, allowing for them to receive treatment early when it’s most effective. By correcting vision issues early, children can experience improved performance in school and an overall better quality of life.
2. Prevent learning problems
Approximately 80% of learning is visual, meaning that students need to see the board, read textbooks, and process information properly. More often than not, children with undiagnosed vision problems struggle in school as they may not be able to keep up with the rest of their classmates. A lack of comprehension, poor performance on exams, and difficulty reading are just some of the learning problems that undiagnosed vision issues can cause. That is why it is essential for children to have an eye exam before heading back to school.
3. Address problems that affect eye health
Kids today are spending more time than ever playing video games, watching TV, or doing other activities on their electronic devices, which can lead to eye fatigue and strain. An eye exam not only helps detect vision issues but also addresses any problems that may affect eye health. Your child’s eye doctor can share expert advice on how to maintain healthy eyesight, including taking regular breaks from electronic devices, ensuring proper lighting, and maintaining comfortable reading distances.
4. Keep up with eye care
As children grow, their eyes change, and their vision may fluctuate. Regular eye exams ensure that their eyes receive the necessary care and that any changes are identified early on. It is highly recommended that children undergo a comprehensive eye exam at least once a year. This proactive approach helps monitor their vision health, detect any potential issues, and ensure appropriate interventions are implemented if needed.
5. Vision screenings are not the same as comprehensive eye exams
While schools often carry out vision screenings for students, these screenings are not as thorough as those provided by a qualified eye doctor. Comprehensive eye exams can detect vision problems that a school screening may miss, giving parents peace of mind knowing their child is learning with the best possible vision.
Regular pediatric eye exams play a critical role in ensuring good health, preventing vision problems, and maintaining academic success. Don’t wait until there are eye problems before scheduling an appointment. Book an appointment with our experienced eye doctor today to help your child start the new school year with confidence and good vision.