Back-to-School Eye Exams: Why Your Child Needs One
Back-to-School Eye Exams: Why Your Child Needs One
As summer winds down, parents are busy checking off school supply lists, organizing schedules, and preparing their children for another exciting school year. One important item that’s often overlooked is booking a back to school eye exam.
Good vision plays a vital role in your child’s success at school. In fact, experts estimate that up to 80% of classroom learning is visual, making healthy eyesight essential for reading, writing, participating in class, and building confidence. At Sherwood Park Eye Centre, we’re committed to helping children start the school year with clear vision and healthy eyes.
Learning and Vision Go Hand in Hand
Many vision problems aren’t obvious. Children often assume everyone sees the way they do, so they may not complain if something is wrong. Instead, undiagnosed vision issues can appear as:
- Difficulty reading or focusing on homework
- Frequent headaches or eye strain
- Squinting or covering one eye
- Losing their place while reading
- Avoiding close-up work
- Trouble paying attention in class
- Declining grades or frustration with school
Because learning and vision are so closely connected, a comprehensive eye exam can identify issues before they begin affecting academic performance and confidence.
What Is All Checked During An Exam?
A child’s comprehensive eye exam assesses much more than just how your child is focusing, including
- Visual acuity at both distance and near
- Eye health
- Eye teaming and coordination
- Focusing ability
- Depth perception
- Colour vision
- Early signs of eye disease
- Refractive errors such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism
Some children can excel in school while still experiencing vision problems that make reading and learning more difficult. That’s why annual comprehensive eye exams remain the best way to protect your child’s vision.
Supporting Children’s Vision in Alberta
At Sherwood Park Eye Centre, we’re passionate about promoting healthy children’s vision Alberta families can depend on. We recommend that children receive their first eye exam before their first birthday, another at age three, when they begin kindergarten, and then annually throughout their school years.
Regular eye exams allow us to monitor your child’s visual development and detect changes early, including myopia (nearsightedness), which has become increasingly common among school-aged children.
Early intervention often leads to better long-term outcomes and can help children stay comfortable and confident both inside and outside the classroom.
Ask Us About Eye See Eye Learn
We’re proud to participate in the Eye See Eye Learn program, which helps eligible kindergarten students in
Alberta receive a comprehensive eye exam and, if needed, a free pair of prescription glasses.
The program was started at Sherwood Park Eye Centre by our own Dr. Dorrie Morrow and continues to help children begin their educational journey with the clear vision they need to succeed. It’s one more way we’re supporting families and investing in healthier futures for our community.
Give Your Child a Clear Start This School Year
A comprehensive eye exam is one of the simplest ways to help your child prepare for a successful year. Whether your child is entering kindergarten, starting high school, or anywhere in between, our experienced team is here to provide compassionate, thorough eye care in a welcoming environment.
Book your child’s eye exam before the school year begins and help ensure they have every opportunity to learn, grow, and see their best. We look forward to helping your family enjoy healthy vision all year long.