Success in the Classroom Begins with Healthy Vision
What’s the most important thing to remember as you prepare your kids for success in the
coming school year? A new lunchbox so they can carry healthy meals that promote energy and focus in the classroom? Plenty of pens, pencils, and notebooks so they can prepare study materials and complete assignments? What about an eye health exam with your optometrist?
If you’ve never thought of an eye health exam as being part of your back-to-school preparations, consider this: More than 80% of a child’s learning happens through vision. An undiagnosed vision problem could impact learning and performance, grades, self-esteem, and more. Sometimes, undetected vision problems are mistaken for a learning disability, such as dyslexia or ADD.
Older children may be better able to communicate when their vision is abnormal, but elementary aged students may not. How can you determine if your child is suffering from vision problems? Some warning signs include:
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Sitting too close to the TV or other electronic device, or holding a book too close
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Using their finger as a guide and/or frequently losing their place while reading
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Closing one eye or tilting their head to see better
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Frequent eye rubbing or sensitivity to light
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Complaints of headaches or tired eyesEven if your child already wears glasses, their prescription can change frequently as they grow. Scheduling regular eye health exams ensures they have a prescription that supports proficient hand-eye coordination, accurate eye teaming (both eyes working together in coordination), smooth alternation between close and far focusing, and efficient peripheral vision.The new school year is right around the corner. In between shopping for new clothes and gathering school supplies, be sure to also arrange for an annual eye health exam with an optometrist that specializes in children’s vision. Success in the classroom begins with healthy vision! Call to day to make an appointment.
Owen Drive 910-323-3698
Ramsey Street 910-488-0211
