About Eye Exams for Children
As children and teens progress through school, it is important to have regular eye exams that ensure learning is not slowed by vision problems. An estimated 25 percent of students have vision problems that need diagnosis and treatment. Many schools offer vision screenings, but these may not be performed by a trained optometrist, so certain tests may not be performed that could catch common problems. School tests typically focus on distance vision, but a full eye exam will check for nearsightedness, farsightedness, astigmatism, color blindness, clumsy eyes, lazy eye, and more. A comprehensive eye exam by one of the trained optometrists or ophthalmologists at Vold Vision in Northwest Arkansas can improve learning and prevent long-term vision problems. Vold Vision can also help children and teens who have allergies or diabetes, conditions like lazy eye or pink eye, or after an injury or accident.
Children and Teenagers Reviews
Best Candidates
It's best to have an annual eye exam to check for any vision problems or eye conditions, but parents should watch for other signs and symptoms, including:
- Excessive blinking
- Eye discharge
- Frequent headaches
- Losing their place while reading
- Red eyes
- Squinting
Any child or teen who participates in sports or other activities should also talk to their eye doctor about protective eyewear and sunglasses.
What to Expect
A routine vision screening for anyone over age five will include visual acuity testing with a standardized Snellen chart along. An eye exam also includes checking the reaction of the pupils plus a physical inspection of the eyes and eyelids. Other tests may be suggested if concerns are found, but most eye exams for children and teens should be fast and noninvasive. The Optical Shop inside Vold Vision can help kids find the right glasses, sunglasses, and contact lenses for their needs.
After Treatment
School-age children should have routine eye exams right before each school year to make sure they don't have any vision problems that may make learning more difficult. It's also important to have regular eye exams and a relationship with an eye doctor in case of accidents, injuries, and emergencies. Parents can also help their child's vision with age-appropriate time limits and frequent screen breaks. Computer vision syndrome (CVS) is a growing problem as children spend more time watching digital screens that cause problems with vision, dry eyes, headaches, and more.
Visual Learning
Growing up can be hard enough, so help your child by scheduling annual back-to-school eye exams. Make sure their eyes are healthy and their vision is strong so they can do their best work. Contact Vold Vision to schedule an eye exam for your child.
