Did you know that August is Children’s Vision and Learning Month? Established by the American Optometric Association (AOA) in 1995, this month aims to educate parents, guardians, and teachers about the crucial role vision plays in a child’s education. Over 80 percent of what a child learns in school is presented visually, meaning any vision problems can significantly impact their learning and development.
As summer comes to an end and the back-to-school season approaches, it’s the perfect time to prioritize your child’s eye health with back-to-school eye exams. This blog will explore why scheduling a comprehensive eye exam for kids is essential for setting your child up for a successful school year. Read on to learn more!
The importance of vision for learning
Children rely heavily on their vision for learning. In fact, studies show that nearly one in four school-aged children has an undiagnosed vision problem. Poor eyesight can lead to struggles in reading, writing, and overall classroom performance, affecting not just academic outcomes but also social skills. Symptoms of vision issues can often manifest in the classroom or playground, such as difficulty focusing on the board, frequent squinting, or complaints of headaches.
Regular eye exams: a necessity
To ensure your kid’s vision is in top shape, regular eye exams are essential. We recommend that children have an eye exam at least once a year. Common vision problems in kids include nearsightedness, hyperopia (farsightedness), and astigmatism. The good news is that early detection of these issues can prevent long-term complications and greatly improve your child’s learning experience, making annual eye exams all the more vital.
Promoting good eye care habits at home
As parents, you play a pivotal role in fostering good eye health. We have 3 easy tips to encourage healthy vision at home and school.
- Limit screen time – Encourage breaks from screens to reduce eye strain. Aim for the 20-20-20 rule, where every 20 minutes, your child looks at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds to help relax their eyes.
- Encourage outdoor play – Spending time outdoors can help improve overall eye health and can help slow the progression of nearsightedness.
- Provide proper lighting – Ensure your child has adequate lighting for reading and writing to prevent eye fatigue.
Additionally, stay alert for signs of vision problems. If your child frequently rubs their eyes, struggles to see the board, or holds books too close, it’s time to schedule an eye exam.
Schedule your child’s eye exam today
The link between eye health and learning is undeniable. This back-to-school season, take a proactive step in protecting your child’s vision by booking them an eye exam. A thorough examination can uncover hidden vision issues and provide your child with the tools they need to excel academically. We encourage you to schedule your eye exam today at our eye doctor in Quincy, IL.