Did you know summer is the perfect time to take your children in for an annual comprehensive eye exam? School is out and even though playtime is all that’s on your child’s mind, it’s important for you to get them ready for a new school year. Experts say 5% to 10% of preschoolers and 25% of school-aged children have vision problems. Plus, I started wearing glasses at a young age, so we are very conscious about monitoring our daughters’ vision.
By monitoring your child’s vision with annual comprehensive eye exams, any potential vision problems or eye disease can be detected and prevented early.
A child will have difficulty learning at school if they can’t see. I remember vividly not being able to read what was written on the chalkboard and missing out on important lessons. I felt confused and cried that I also could not see the television at home without sitting right in front of it. My mom brought me to the eye doctor and they determined that I was having trouble with seeing things at a distance.
We keep our eyes shaded in the summer sun with sunglasses!
It is so easy to find an eye doctor on the Think About Your Eyes website though. After typing in your zip code, you will receive results of every eye doctor in your area. You are able to read reviews and ratings to help you pick where you should go. Then give the doctor a call and make sure you book an appointment when your child will be alert and happy.
Prepare your child for an eye exam by explaining that the eye doctor is going to examine their eyes using different tools. Tell your child there may be eye drops, but nothing painful. You can read books about going to the eye doctor or look up pictures of E charts on the internet.
To monitor your child’s vision, its recommended they have a comprehensive eye exam when they’re 6 months, three years and five years old. After the age of six, they should have annual – or biannual exams if no correction is needed.
Wonder if your child has vision problems? There are a few signs to look for on your own to determine if your child has vision problems. Like excessive blinking or eye rubbing, pulling a book too close, or difficulty throwing/catching a ball. You can see a more extensive list here.
We are excited to visit the eye doctor for the first time. I know Annabelle and Ailey are curious about their Mom’s glasses and would love to wear a pair too – but I personally hope they inherit their Daddy’s perfect vision.
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