Back-to-school checklists generally include school supplies, a backpack, and new clothes. A critical item missing from this checklist is a comprehensive eye exam!

Every child deserves to be set up for success for the new school year, and scheduling your child for a comprehensive eye exam at Dayton Optometric Center in Kettering will help them achieve it.

Why Do Children Need Regular Eye Exams?

Research has shown that up to 80% of classroom learning occurs through a child's vision. Children who can't read what's written on the board or who get headaches from doing homework feel frustrated. If your child is having trouble concentrating or acting out in class, they could have a vision problem.

Issues with their vision can make it challenging to read, do written work, focus, catch a ball, and even socialize with their peers. Many children don't even realize they have a vision problem, or are unable to communicate what's challenging for them.

That's where a pediatric eye exam comes in. Your child's eye doctor can perform a comprehensive exam to assess your child's eyesight, eye health, and visual skills like eye teaming and tracking. In partnership with you, the optometrist can ensure that your child receives the care they need.

When Should You Take Your Child For an Eye Exam?

Routine eye exams should start around six months of age. Your child's next visit can be at age 2-3 and again before entering 1st grade. After that, it's recommended that children have an annual eye exam until the age of 18, or as recommended by their eye doctor.

An easy way to remember to take your child every year is to add it to your back-to-school checklist! To schedule your child's appointment, call Dayton Optometric Center in Kettering, Ohio today at (937) 228-2020.

FAQ

Is a comprehensive eye exam the same as a school vision screening?

No. School vision screenings check for basic visual acuity. During a comprehensive eye exam, the eye doctor assesses the internal and external health of your child's eye as well as their vision, eye movement, eye teaming, depth perception, peripheral vision, and more. The earlier a problem is found, the sooner treatment can begin.

What are some signs that your child is having vision problems?

Common signs include frequent headaches, avoiding reading and other close-up activities, frequent eye rubbing, short attention span, and tilting of the head to see more clearly. If your child is experiencing any of these symptoms, schedule a comprehensive eye exam.