As the back-to-school begins, it’s easy to focus on the obvious school supplies: books backpacks, uniform etc. But we normally neglect the most important thing: Your Child’s Vision.

Clear eyesight is one of the most powerful tools your child needs for success in the classroom, on the playground, and in everyday life. Yet many vision issues go unnoticed because kids don’t always know something’s wrong.

As a parent, knowing what signs to look for can make all the difference.

In this article, you’ll find common signs that your child needs a vision exam and a couple of tips on how to chose their eyewear.

Why Kids Don’t Always Speak Up About Vision Trouble

Here’s the tricky part: Many kids assume the way they see the world is normal, it’s how everyone else sees it. So, they usually don’t speak up. 

And while school screenings are helpful, they’re not a full replacement for a proper vision exam. In fact, the skills necessary for learning are not detectable during a regular vision exam. A comprehensive optometric exam, including an evaluation of the binocular system, is necessary to detect visual problems that affect learning.

That’s why early check-ups and awareness are key, especially before the school year begins.

You might be the first to spot something your child hasn’t even noticed yet:

 

* Squinting to See the Board

If your child squints while reading the whiteboard or watching TV, it’s worth paying attention.

It can be a sign of refractive errors like nearsightedness (Myopia) or astigmatism. If this happens often, there eyes might need support.

* Frequent Eye Rubbing or Headaches After School

Does your child come home rubbing their eyes or complaining of headaches, especially after reading or long hours on screens? That can be another sign to look for, saying, “Their eyes are tired.”

Eye strain from uncorrected vision problems can often show up after a long school day when your child has been focusing hard.

* Sitting Too Close to Screens or Books

Consistently scooting closet to the TV or burying their nose in a book can be their way of compensating a Blurry distance vision. If you notice this happening often, it would be a good idea to schedule a vision check.

* Avoiding Reading, Writing, or Homework

If your child avoids reading, skips lines while reading aloud, or gets frustrated during homework time, don’t jump to conclusions. It’s easy to misread this, it might be due to their eyes such as Blurry or double Vision.

When reading becomes a struggle, many kids simply choose to avoid it. Book them a vision exam, it might reveal the real reason behind this.

* Tilting the Head or Covering One Eye

If they are tilting their head when looking at something, or even covering one eye during reading or screen time, these habits often help kids compensate for double vision or visual misalignment, such as lazy eye or strabismus.

They might not notice themselves doing this, but you would, book their vision exam.

* Complains of Double Vision or Seeing Halos Around Lights

When your child tells you “The lines are moving” or “The letters are dancing,” don’t dismiss it as imagination.

That’s how kids sometimes describe seeing double or experiencing unstable focus, and it’s a clear indicator of the need for an eye exam.

* Clumsiness or Trouble with Coordination

Are they always tripping, bumping into things, or struggling to catch a ball? Sure, some kids are just finding their balance but this can also be linked to poor depth perception or peripheral vision.

This can affect everything from their performance in gym class to how confident they feel socially. Book their exam.

* Sensitivity to Light or Excessive Tearing

It’s not always seasonal allergies. If your child constantly squints in sunlight, complains about glare in the classroom, or tears up frequently, it might be time to take a look. These could be signs of eye strain or other underlying issues.

* Family History of Vision Problems

If you or your partner wore glasses as a child, your little one may be more likely to need them, too. Genetics play a big role in vision development, so even if your child isn’t showing symptoms now, it’s wise to have regular vision exams, especially, before school starts.

When Should You Schedule Your Child’s Vision Exam?

👶 First exam at 6 months

👧 Second exam at 3 years

🎒 Another before school (around age 5 or 6)

🔁 Than 1, 2 x a year or as recommended by your eye care professional / Ophtalmologiist

It’s always a good idea to book an appointment with an eye care professional, if your child shows any common symptoms mentioned above. Even if they are asymptomatic, Back to School season, is the ideal time for their check-up, before starting the school year.

An optometrist or ophthalmologist, can check for underlying conditions (not traceable by a simple screening), that could cause vision issues and affect their academic journey. 

Let’s Make Learning Brighter

At Optique et Vision, our team of optometrists is passionate about setting your child up for success.

We offer gentle, child-friendly exams and help you pick eyewear that suits your child’s style, age, and needs. Whether it’s classic or colorful, small frames or playful ones, we help your child love wearing their glasses.

👓 Let them see clearly. Let them shine brighter in the classroom.

Book your Vision Exam today: 

Pass by Optique et Vision: Visit one of OV's welcoming branches, conveniently located in different regions. Our friendly staff is ready to assist you in choosing the perfect eyewear.

Upgrade Your Child’s Lenses: If you need a glass lens replacement, take advantage of the 50% discount and have your child enjoy sharper vision.

Get a New Pair: If it's time for a new pair of eyeglasses, explore our stunning collections and receive the anti-reflective glass lenses for FREE.

Book a Vision Exam: Don't forget to Schedule a vision exam for your child before the academic year kicks off.

 📍 Visit our branches and claim your offers today!

 

Wishing your child a successful and bright academic year!