Why Back-to-School Eye Exams Are Important for Learning

Why Back-to-School Eye Exams Are Important for Learning

Why Back-to-School Eye Exams Are Important for Learning

Every child needs to have good eyesight to learn comfortably in school. This does not mean that a visually impaired child cannot learn. It just means that good eyesight makes learning slightly easier for your child. Visual impairment may breed other problems for your child. These can include emotional, social, physical, and mental issues. The sooner you find out that your little one is visually challenged, the higher the chances are that they can receive successful treatment.
 

Standard vision tests for kids in school normally test for myopia or nearsightedness. These tests rarely test if both your child’s eyes are working in unison or if they can easily focus on close objects. Their ability to differentiate colors is also not part of the rudimentary tests. For these reasons it is best to have a qualified ophthalmologist test your child’s vision as soon as you realize that they might have a problem.
 

Signs of Visual Degradation


Below are some telltale signs that may indicate to you that your child may have issues with their eyesight. These include:
 

  • Red eyes or eyelids.

  • Frequent headaches accompanied by rubbing of the eyes.

  • Unusual tearing of the eyes.

  • Difficulty coordinating their eyes with their hands and body.

  • Holding a book close to their face to read.

  • Avoiding any detailed activity that involves puzzles or coloring.

  • Encrusted eyelids.

  • Poor penmanship and many other odd visually related deeds.
     

You will not find many schools that do comprehensive eye screening programs on their students. To be on the safe side, take your child for a visual examination by an ophthalmologist before starting every school year. Do not fall for the common misconception that your child’s eyes cannot be accurately tested until they learn to read. Several tests can be done when your kid is still very young. A three-dimensional visual test can be done using pictures that are familiar to your little one.
 

The Ideal Time to Take Your Child for an Eye Test


You should have your child’s eyes examined as soon as you realize that they may have a problem. Studies have shown that you should have this test done from as early as your child is six months old. It may seem very early, but good eyesight is particularly important. The earlier you realize that your child has issues with their eyes, the higher the chances that they will receive the ideal assistance.
 

Impact of Poor Eyesight in Your Child’s Learning


Imagine that you are a child in school and you are unable to read something on the board that your teacher has asked you to read for the class. This is an embarrassing situation that may lead to you feeling inadequate because you are unable. This is the same situation that your child will face if they are visually challenged. Such situations may lead to several long-term personal issues that can impede their positive progress in life.
 

If this handicap goes untreated, your child will find it difficult to focus in class. This leads to lower grades in school.
 

Up to 80 percent of what your child learns happens through vision. Current statistics show that 1 in 10 school-going kids suffer from a form of visual impairment. Visual impairment if not handled can hinder your child’s chances of succeeding in school.
 

For more information and assistance on eye exams, visit Inclima Eye Care at our offices in West Haven, Connecticut. You can also call (203) 694-0418 to book an appointment.

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