Essential kids’ eye exams for a successful school year
As summer draws to a close and back-to-school approaches, parents often find themselves busy with a checklist of tasks to ensure their children are prepared for the new academic year. Amongst the school supplies, new clothes, and updated schedules, one critical item should not be overlooked: a comprehensive eye exam.
At Optikal Opticians, we emphasise the importance of regular eye exams for children as a crucial part of back-to-school preparations because clear vision is essential for academic success. Thankfully, early detection of vision problems can have a significant positive impact a child’s learning experience and overall well-being.
Read on to learn more about the importance of a back-to-school kid’s eye exam and how you can encourage healthy habits to promote good eye care at home.
The importance of good vision for education
Clear vision plays a vital role in a child’s education for effective learning, from reading the whiteboard to completing assignments. It’s estimated that one in five children has an undetected vision problem, which can significantly impact their academic performance. These can include difficulties in reading, writing, and focusing on tasks, often resulting in frustration and decreased confidence.
Undiagnosed vision problems can manifest in various ways, such as headaches, eye strain, and difficulty concentrating. These issues might be mistaken for learning disabilities or behavioural problems. A regular children’s eye test is essential to identify and treat any vision problems promptly, helping children achieve their full potential in school.
Benefits of regular eye examinations
Regular eye examinations provide numerous benefits for children. First, they help detect vision problems early, allowing for timely intervention and treatment. Early detection is crucial because some vision issues if left untreated, can lead to permanent vision impairment. By scheduling an annual eye exam, parents can guarantee their child’s eye health is checked and their vision functioning optimally.
Furthermore, regular eye exams contribute to better academic performance. Children with clear vision can focus better, read more efficiently, and participate actively in classroom activities. Improved vision boosts their confidence, as they can engage in schoolwork without the frustration of blurry vision or eye strain.
How often should my child have an eye exam?
A children’s eye test is recommended every 12 months. However, if they show signs of vision issues – such as squinting, frequent headaches, or difficulty reading – it’s important to book an appointment sooner.
What to expect during a kid’s eye examination
Many parents might wonder what happens during a kid’s eye exam. Our comprehensive eye exams are designed to be thorough yet child friendly.
- Initial assessment—Our eye exams begin with a discussion of your child’s medical history and any vision-related concerns. We encourage parents to share observations about their child’s vision and behaviour.
- Visual acuity test – This measures how well your child can see at various distances. They will read letters or symbols on a chart, so our optometrist can assess their visual clarity.
- Refraction test – This determines your child’s prescription for glasses or contact lenses. Our optometrist uses a device called a phoropter to identify the best corrective lenses for your child.
- Eye movement and coordination tests – These tests evaluate how well your child’s eyes work together and track moving objects. Proper eye coordination is essential for activities like reading and sports.
- Eye health examination – Our optometrist examines your child’s eyes for any signs of health issues, such as infections, allergies, or structural problems. This part of the exam may include using a special light to look inside the eyes.
- Discussion and recommendations—After the examination, our optometrist will discuss the findings with the parents and child. If corrective lenses are needed, we’ll recommend the best options, ranging from kids’ glasses to contact lenses.
Scheduling and preparing for an eye exam
To avoid the back-to-school rush, we advise scheduling your child’s eye exam well in advance. The summer break or early in the school year are ideal times. Before they’re due to come in, we recommend explaining the eye exam process in simple terms, reassuring them that it’s a routine check-up, and encouraging them to ask questions. Bringing a favourite toy or book can also help them feel more comfortable in an unfamiliar environment.
Vision correction options
We’re proud to offer a wide range of vision correction options for children, including various styles and brands of glasses that suit all children’s preferences and needs. We also provide soft contact lenses for older children and teenagers who prefer an alternative to glasses.
Our experienced optometrists and staff are dedicated to helping children find the best vision correction solution. We understand that comfort, durability, and style are essential factors for kids’ eyewear, and we strive to offer options that meet these criteria.
Tips for maintaining good eye health
Maintaining good eye health extends beyond regular eye exams. Here are some of our top tips for promoting healthy vision at home.
- Proper lighting—To reduce eye strain, make sure that your child reads or does homework in well-lit areas.
- Limit screen time – Encourage regular breaks from screens to prevent digital eye strain. The 20-20-20 rule is helpful: every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break and look at something 20 feet away.
- Protective eyewear – Invest in protective eyewear for sports and outdoor activities to prevent eye injuries.
- Healthy diet – Encourage a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and omega-3 fatty acids to support good eye health.
- Hygiene – Teach your child to wash their hands before touching their eyes and to avoid rubbing their eyes excessively.
Get in touch
As you and your child prepare for the upcoming school year, remember that regular eye exams are essential for their success and well-being. Schedule an eye exam at our opticians in Temple Fortune, Potters Bar, or Finchley, and make clear vision a priority in your back-to-school preparations.