Many professionals stress that about 80 percent of learning happens through a child's eyes. Since a child's vision can change occasionally, regular eye and vision care is crucial to a student's classroom performance. Unfortunately, most parents don't make sight exams part of their child's back-to-school doctor's visit line-up. Furthermore a recent survey found that over half of parents don't bring their child for an eye test until they are three. In truth, the AOA advises that children receive their first eye assessment at six months, then complete eye check-ups beginning at age three, before starting school. Exams should continue to be booked routinely every other year after.
Often the issues a child suffers from in school can be the result of sight problems. The percentage of students who suffer from undiagnosed problems with eyesight is quite large. Over 60% of children identified as "problem learners" really suffer from undetected vision problems. You can avoid potential problems if you take a proactive role in ensuring your child's vision is up to par.
Don't wait until your child enters kindergarten for his first thorough eye check-up. Your child's doctor should do a dilated eye exam to discover any major eye problems by the first two months after birth. Every child should have a complete eye exam by age three, because early intervention can avoid developmental delay. Additionally as a parent, it's important to make sure your child enjoys reading. Usually, most kindergarteners are eager to look at books and attempt to read. Children that don't read books may suffer from a vision problem. A thorough vision check-up by a pediatric optometrist should be one of the tools used in making a diagnosis. For an eye exam for your child in Plano, TX, call us to schedule an appointment.
Remember that the earlier a vision impairment is identified and treated, the greater the chances for successful treatment. And eyesight is a crucial component for school. If a child's eyesight is flawed, increasing visual requirements such as finer print in textbooks or more homework can drastically change a student's performance. At the same time new technological advances in the classroom, such as the use of interactive whiteboards, can also possibly exacerbate less obvious vision issues. Without healthy vision, children may struggle not only at school, but also mentally, physically and emotionally. This year, ensure your child a great year in school, by making sure their vision is in perfect condition. Contact us for a Plano, TX eye exam today.