Parents remember to add an eye test to their school check-list

As screen time increases, eye examinations for children become more important than ever.

As another school year begins, we are raising awareness of the critical role a child’s eyes play in their school life; from reading, writing, sports activities to computer use. More often than not, children themselves won’t identify that there is anything wrong with their vision as they assume their vision is just like everyone else’s. That’s why we urge parents to bring their kids in before they start school and every two years thereafter to give us the best chance to pick up vision problems early.   
 
An astounding 1 in 5 children suffers from an undetected vision problem, however the research shows a sharp decline in optometric services to children of all ages up to 14.
 
This trend is alarming because vision is responsible for 80% of all learning in a child’s first 12 years.  Poor vision can interfere with your child’s ability to learn both in and out of the classroom, and can also stunt their emotional and social development. Seeing your child before they start school means we can ensure their visual system is functioning optimally for learning. 
 
Some of key signs and symptoms of vision problems include:

• One eye turns in or out while the other points straight ahead
• Frequent blinking
• Red or watery eyes
• Sensitivity to light
• Frequently rubbing eyes
• Difficulty concentrating
• Tilting head noticeably
• Covering or closing one eye
• Difficulty learning to read
• Holding a book very close when reading
• Leaving out confusing words when reading
• Squinting or sitting very close when watching television
• Difficulty recognising familiar people in the distance
• Complaints of headaches, blurred or double vision

 
At Tamborine Mountain Optometrists we take a holistic and extensive approach to an eye examination, including advice on health, diet and lifestyle and the latest eyewear solutions for maintaining healthy eyes and vision.  Call us on 5545 0277 for an appointment or book online on our website www.tamborinemountainoptometrists.com.
 
The facts and figures in this article are sourced from research conducted by Vision Council of America, Making the Grade, 2009.

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