The new school year is right around the corner! While your kiddos may be brimming with excitement to see their friends and favorite teachers, it’s important that children are healthy and ready for the new school year.
One of the things they need to do before school starts is getting a comprehensive eye exam. Let’s dive into some of the benefits of getting an eye exam, why children’s eye exams are so important and what to expect.
Why Regular Eye Exams are Important
Not only is healthy eyesight critical for the overall health of children, but it’s also important for their mental and emotional flourishing. Evidence shows that there is a direct link between undiagnosed vision problems and learning difficulties in school. Putting off or avoiding comprehensive eye exams can put children at a serious disadvantage in their education and their social development.
What to Expect at an Eye Exam
It’s important to let your doctor know about your child’s medical history, especially if they’ve been diagnosed with any eye diseases or have had adjustments to their eyesight in the past. It is also important to mention if your child has failed a vision screening conducted by their school or pediatrician (Russel).
Eye exams differ based on a child’s age, but typically for preschool-aged children, a comprehensive eye exam includes a series of tests for:
- Visual acuity
- Lazy eye
- Stereopsis (3D vision)
- Eye tracking
- Convergence
- Color vision
- Ocular health
Before examinations of any kind, sit down with your child and if they’re able to comprehend, explain what is going to happen at the doctor’s office so that they walk in cool, confident and relaxed.
Want to schedule a kid’s eye exam? Want to experience quality ophthalmology services at prices you can afford and at a facility you’ll love? Contact us at https://www.myvisionunlimited.com/book-appointment to book an appointment today.
Works Cited
Lazarus, Russel. “Eye Exams for Children.” Optometrists Network, 11 Mar 2020, https://www.optometrists.org/childrens-vision/guide-to-childrens-eye-exams/pediatric-eye-exams-2. Accessed 15 June 2022.