As the school year begins, you’re probably juggling new backpacks, lunch boxes, and school supplies. But here’s something you might not have on your checklist yet: an annual eye exam for your kids. And trust us, this is one back-to-school task you don’t want to skip. It can make a world of difference in both their classroom performance and playground fun.
Seeing is Believing: Vision and School Success
Did you know that about 80% of what kids learn depends on their sense of sight? It’s true! If your child is squinting to see the board or struggling to read their textbooks, it can damper their grades and love for learning. Clear vision means they can focus better, understand their lessons, and enjoy their time at school.
More Friends, More Fun: Vision and Social Life
Good vision isn’t just about getting straight A’s — it’s also about making friends and joining in on activities. Whether spotting a buddy across the playground or catching a ball in gym class, seeing clearly helps kids feel more confident and included. No one wants to sit out because they can’t see what’s happening.
What Happens During an Eye Exam?
So, what happens during an eye exam at Madeira Optical? It’s a straightforward process:
Talking to Your Child About Their Health: The eye doctor will ask about your child’s health and any eye-related issues. This helps pinpoint any potential problems.
Seeing the Big Picture: Next, your child will read from an eye chart to check how well they see at different distances. This is where we find out if they need glasses or not.
Eye Movements and Teamwork: The optometrist will then check how well your child’s eyes move and work together. Smooth eye movements are key for reading and sports.
Eye Health Check: Finally, the doctor will peek inside and outside the eyes using some of the latest high-tech instruments. This is to ensure everything is healthy.
Signs Your Kid Might Need an Eye Exam
Kids don’t always know how to say they’re having trouble seeing. Here are some often-missed signs to watch for at different ages:
Pre-School (Ages 3-5)
- Squinting a lot
- Holding books super close
- Struggling with puzzles or games that rely on hand-eye coordination
Elementary School (Ages 6-12)
- Complaining of headaches or tired eyes
- Avoiding reading or homework
- Losing their place while reading
Teenagers (Ages 13-18)
- Having a hard time with screens (phones, tablets)
- Dropping the ball in sports
- Needing to sit close to the TV or board
College Students
- Trouble adjusting to different light settings
- Eye strain from long hours on the computer
- Unexpected dip in grades
Keep Their Vision Sharp: Book an Exam
Scheduling an annual eye exam can catch these issues early and set your kid up for a stellar year ahead. Don’t wait until it’s a big problem — keep their vision sharp and their school year bright.
For more tips on keeping your child’s eyes healthy and their vision clear, visit our eye care team at Madeira Optical.