Think all children have healthy eyes and good vision? Think again. 1 in 4 have a vision problem that can cause problems in learning and behavior.It’s easy to understand why. Because nearly half of all American children haven’t had a real, comprehensive eye exam. Many need glasses, and don’t even know it! And, because virtually everything kids learn comes through their eyes, they’re at a severe disadvantage in school and other activities when they can’t see well.
Vision Problems Can Spell Other Problems for Kids
Too often, a child who can’t see well is misdiagnosed with a totally unrelated behavioral problem like ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder). This misdiagnosis can then start a frustrating chain of events for parents and kids alike, from unnecessary doctors visits and special classes to medications. When, in reality, the true solution might be right before their eyes: a simple pair of glasses!
School Vision Screenings Don’t Make the Grade!
If you’re like many parents, you trust the vision screenings given at your child’s school to be all they need for seeing their best.
Wrong!
These simple eye checks can detect some basic problems, but not all. To do their very best in school, and in life, your child needs a quality, comprehensive eye exam from an Eye Care Professional!
When it comes to your child’s health, eye exams often get overlooked. One in four children have difficulty seeing in school, affecting their ability to learn — it’s hard to learn the material if they can’t see the board. School vision screenings are not enough to detect the vision problems your child may be having.
During a visit to an optometrist for a comprehensive eye exam, the doctor will look at things a school vision screening will not, such as the overall health of the eyes, how the eyes work together, and whether your child’s eyes are focusing correctly.
This in-depth look will also examine depth perception, color and peripheral vision, the health of the pupil, and distance viewing. Children’s eyes are responsible for 80 percent of their total learning, making it vital to ensure the eyes are healthy with an annual exam.
If your child does need glasses, ask your eye doctor about polycarbonate lenses; these lenses are 10 times more impact resistant than standard plastic lenses and the perfect fit for the playground. UV protection is key, as well, to further protect the long-term vision of your child’s eyes.
How Can I See a Vision Problem in My Child?
When you know what you’re looking for, it can be relatively easy to spot a problem with your child’s vision. Keep an eye out for these symptoms or behaviors:
- Avoiding or not liking reading
- Short attention span
- Difficulty throwing or catching a ball, copying from a chalkboard or tying their shoes
- Pulling a book in close to their face, or sitting too close to a TV
- Lots of blinking or eye rubbing
- Guiding their eyes with a finger or pencil while reading
- Falling performance in school
Remember, your child can’t explain that they have a vision problem – they have no understanding of what it means to see properly! So don’t leave their eye health up to them; make sure they get a comprehensive eye exam!
Get Their Eye Exam on the Calendar!
It’s recommended that kids have a comprehensive eye exam when they’re 6 months, three years and five years old. After that, they should have annually – or every two years if no correction is needed.
Make sure your child does her/his very best in school – and in life – please visit www.clearvuenow.com or call (561) 432-4141 to schedule their exam today at CLEAR VUE EYE CENTER!
Monique Barbour, MD.,Board Certified Ophthalmologist
CLEAR VUE LASER EYE CENTER
7657 Lake Worth Rd
Lake Worth, FL 33467
(561) 432-4141
