Lunchbox? ✅
Backpack? ✅
School supplies? ✅
Eye Exam? …

In preparing your child for the new school year, there are a lot of things to remember when getting everything together and done. Don’t let your child’s vision be one of the things that falls through the cracks.

The School System Checks My Child’s Eyes, Why Do They Need an Eye Exam?

While most school systems in this country do test the children’s vision and hearing, they may not do it every year or regularly enough to catch if something needs correction. School screenings are also not very good at catching vision issues. It’s estimated more than 75% of children with vision problems are not diagnosed through school screenings. And sadly, 40% of the children who are diagnosed with vision issues through school screenings are never followed up on. In fact, it’s estimated that 25% of school children have uncorrected vision problems. So, while school screenings are sometimes useful, a proper eye exam by a trained optometrist is the only way to be certain your child is seeing as well as they should be.

At What Age, and How Often, Should I Have My Child’s Eyes Examined?

The American Academy of Ophthalmologists (AAO) recommends having your child’s eye examined at least once before they turn three years old, and then every year after until they’re 19. Children’s growing bodies are changing constantly and this includes their eyes, especially during adolescence and puberty.

Are There Signs My Child’s Vision May Need to Be Corrected?

As you know, it’s important to watch for changes in your child’s behavior, as it can reveal underlying issues you may be unaware of. This is especially true of problems with their vision. Pay close attention as they shift away from looking at a screen, you may notice them not being able to focus properly after. Headaches, fatigue, blinking, squinting, and tearing can also be very telling of problems with their vision.

Be sure to ask your child questions like, “Can you see the white board from where your new seat in class is this year?” And, “Can you see the screen okay from where you sit?” By asking questions like these you may be able to easily determine if your child’s vision may need to be corrected.

Some children’s reading development may be hindered not because of anything more serious than not being able to see the words on the page. If your child is having trouble with reading, correcting their vision may be able to solve the problem. Also, be sure to watch out for crossed eyes, lazy eyes, or drooping eyes, as they may indicate a more serious condition. A comprehensive eye exam can easily rule out that possibility.

Schedule Your Child’s Comprehensive Eye Exam before the New School Year begins.

August is National Children’s Vision Month, which makes for an ideal time to make an appointment to have your child’s vision checked with us at the Gulf Coast Eye Institute.

Click here to schedule an appointment at one of our eight convenient locations, or give us a call at 844-485-3202 and make sure your child starts the school year with everything they’ll need to succeed.