It seems like the summer has really just started-but believe it or not
it’s almost time to get the kids ready to go back to school! As part of your “Back
to School Checklist,” it’s important to remember to schedule an eye exam for
your children. Keep in mind that childrens’ eye health and vision is one of the
core functions of learning. Today more than ever, kids operate in a very
intense and demanding visual environment as they read, write, play sports, use
computers and tablets and on and on…and being able to get clear and efficient
vision plays a critical role for them.
An annual eye exam for children is a good idea as it is not uncommon for
childrens’ vision to change during their school years and development. Regular
eye exams can detect these changes or any eye problems that might hinder their
overall well being and academic performance. The most frequent eye problems we
find in school age kids are the common vision problems of nearsightedness,
farsightedness and astigmatism. Sometimes, not having clear vision in the
classroom can lead to the undeserved perception of a behavioral problem or
attention problem. What we know is that kids are often unable to verbalize that
they have a vision problem as they just don’t recognize it. It is important to
observe children for some common behaviors that might indicate an eye or vision
problem. Watch for:
·
Frequent eye rubbing or blinking
·
Short attention span
·
Avoiding reading and other close activities
·
Frequent headaches
·
Covering one eye
·
Tilting the head to one eye
·
Holding reading materials close to the face
·
An eye turning in or out
·
Seeing double
·
Losing place when reading
·
Difficulty remembering what he or she read
If your child exhibits any of these please bring it to our attention. Your
child should receive an eye examination at least once every two years,
preferably EACH YEAR, more frequently if specific problems or risk factors
exist, or if recommended by your eye doctor. The earlier a vision problem is
detected and treated, the more likely treatment will be successful.
If you or someone you know has
questions or concerns about childrens’ vision, please call
Doctor & Associates-203-227-4113, visit Doctor & Associates in
Fairfield County, Google+ or
facebook.com/doctorandassociates to schedule an appointment.
Doctor & Associates offices
are located at 129 Kings Highway North, Westport, Connecticut 06880, 195
Danbury Road, Wilton, Connecticut 06897 and 148 East Avenue, Norwalk,
Connecticut 06851.
