As summer winds down and the excitement of a new school year builds, parents are busy making sure their children are prepared for the classroom. From shopping for school supplies to organizing daily routines, getting ready for back-to-school is all about setting kids up for success. However, one important step that’s often missed is scheduling a pediatric eye exam. Good vision plays a vital role in a child’s learning and development, making an eye exam just as important as any item on your child’s school supply list.

Vision and Learning Go Hand-in-Hand

Clear vision is crucial for your child’s learning and development. According to the American Optometric Association, up to 80% of learning in school is visual. This means that your child’s ability to read, write, use technology, and participate in classroom activities relies heavily on their vision.
 

Unfortunately, many common vision problems can go undetected without a professional eye exam. Children may not realize they have a vision issue or may not be able to articulate it.
 

Signs Your Child May Need an Eye Exam

Children don’t always recognize or express when something is wrong with their vision, so it’s important for parents to watch for certain signs that may indicate a problem. Some common signs your child may need an eye exam include:
 

• Frequent squinting or closing one eye: This can be a way for children to try to see more clearly or reduce double vision.

• Sitting too close to the TV or holding devices very near their face: Children with vision issues often compensate by moving closer to screens or books.

• Complaints of headaches or eye pain: Ongoing discomfort can be a sign that your child’s eyes are straining to focus.

• Difficulty reading or losing their place while reading: Skipping lines, using a finger to track words, or quickly losing interest in reading may indicate vision problems.

• Excessive tearing or rubbing of the eyes: These behaviors can signal eye fatigue or irritation related to vision issues.

• Trouble seeing the board at school: If your child’s teacher reports that your child cannot see what’s written on the board, it’s a good idea to schedule an eye exam.

Addressing vision problems early can make a significant difference in your child’s comfort, confidence, and academic success.

The Importance of Early Detection

Pediatric eye exams can detect a variety of issues, including nearsightedness, farsightedness, astigmatism, lazy eye (amblyopia), and eye teaming or focusing problems. Many of these conditions, if caught early, can be managed or corrected, helping to prevent academic and social challenges. When left unaddressed, vision problems can hinder your child’s progress, confidence, and enjoyment of school.

The beginning of the school year is an ideal time to schedule your child’s eye exam. By ensuring their vision is clear and healthy before classes begin, you’re giving them the best chance for academic success and a positive school experience. Early exams also mean there is plenty of time to address any concerns, such as prescribing glasses, planning follow up visits, or recommending other treatments.

Ensure Clear and Healthy Vision for the School Year Ahead

A pediatric eye exam is a critical part of your child’s back-to-school routine, setting the stage for confident learning and development. Don’t wait for the first report card to discover a vision issue. Schedule your child’s comprehensive eye exam at Clarity Eyecare today, and give them the clarity they need to succeed all year long.
 

Contact Clarity Eyecare to schedule a pediatric eye exams and start the school year with confidence. Visit any of our offices in Birmingham, Waterford, Sylvan Lake, South Lyon, Walled Lake, and Commerce Twp., Michigan. Call (248) 369-3300, (248) 698-2000, (248) 682-6448, (248) 437-3351, (248) 624-1707, or (248) 366-8600 to book an appointment today.