As parents gather school supplies and prepare their children for a new academic year, one crucial tool often gets overlooked—an eye exam. The American Optometric Association (AOA) encourages families to make comprehensive eye exams a key part of their back-to-school checklist. Good vision is essential for learning, and a simple exam by an optometrist or ophthalmologist could put students on a clearer path to academic success.
The Link Between Healthy Vision and Academic Achievement
It’s easy to focus on notebooks, backpacks, and new clothes during back-to-school season, but healthy vision is just as important, if not more so. Research published in the Journal of Behavioral Optometry found that 80% of learning during a child’s first 12 years is connected to sight. From reading the board at the front of the classroom to focusing on words in a book or tablet, a child’s eyes are their gateway to understanding the world around them.
Children with untreated vision problems can struggle needlessly in school. Their difficulties may be misinterpreted as behavioral issues or learning disabilities when, in fact, poor vision is the root cause. A comprehensive eye exam can detect these issues early, giving students the chance to succeed without unnecessary barriers.
Signs Your Child Might Have a Vision Problem
Since many children don’t realize that their vision isn’t normal—they assume what they see is what everyone sees—it’s up to parents and caregivers to watch for signs of trouble. The AOA recommends looking for these potential indicators of a vision issue:
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Squinting, closing, or covering one eye
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Holding books or electronic devices very close to the face
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Losing their place while reading or using a finger to track words
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Frequent headaches, nausea, or dizziness
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Excessive clumsiness, such as bumping into objects or tripping often
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Tilting the head to one side while focusing
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Frequent daydreaming or difficulty concentrating
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Rubbing the eyes repeatedly
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Performing below their potential in schoolwork
These signs can point to a variety of vision conditions, including nearsightedness (myopia), farsightedness (hyperopia), astigmatism, or eye coordination problems. The sooner these are identified, the sooner solutions like glasses, vision therapy, or other treatments can be implemented.
The Importance of Comprehensive Eye Exams
Some parents may believe that vision screenings at school or during a well-child visit at the pediatrician’s office are enough. While these screenings can identify some basic problems, they are not a substitute for a full eye exam. Screenings usually test only distance vision and may miss more subtle or complex issues like problems with eye teaming, focusing, or tracking—all of which are essential for reading and learning.
The AOA recommends the following timeline for eye exams:
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First exam at six months old: To check for early issues like crossed eyes or significant refractive errors.
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Next exam at age three: To ensure the eyes are developing properly as children become more active and engaged with their environment.
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Another exam before starting school (around age five or six): To detect vision issues that could affect school performance.
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Every two years after that (or more frequently if recommended by your eye doctor): To monitor changes as children grow and their visual demands increase.
Don’t Wait for Vision Problems to Affect Learning
A back-to-school eye exam ensures your child starts the year with the best possible visual foundation. Early detection and correction of vision issues can improve reading fluency, boost confidence, and help students stay focused in class.
Schedule Your Child’s Exam Today
Before the school year begins, contact your local optometrist or ophthalmologist to schedule a comprehensive eye exam. Not only will this help identify any vision concerns, but it can also provide peace of mind knowing your child is ready to learn and thrive.
Remember, a simple pair of glasses or a personalized treatment plan could make all the difference in your child’s educational journey.