Why Kids Need Eye Exams Before Starting School

Vision plays a critical role in a child’s learning and development. Yet, many children enter school without ever having a comprehensive eye exam. Undiagnosed vision problems can affect reading, focus, hand-eye coordination, and overall academic performance.

The Problem with Waiting

Children often don't realize they're seeing poorly—because they assume everyone sees the same way. Relying solely on school vision screenings can miss serious issues like:

• Farsightedness

• Astigmatism

• Eye coordination problems

• Lazy eye (amblyopia)

These conditions are easiest to treat when caught early, ideally before a child starts formal education.

What to Expect in a Pediatric Eye Exam

Unlike a basic screening, a comprehensive eye exam by an optometrist evaluates:

• Visual acuity

• Depth perception

• Eye alignment

• Focusing ability

• Overall eye health

It’s painless, quick, and essential for ensuring your child starts school with the visual tools they need to succeed.

How Vision Problems Affect Learning

Poor vision can lead to:

• Difficulty reading or copying from the board

• Short attention span

• Frequent headaches

• Frustration with schoolwork

These issues are often misdiagnosed as learning disabilities or behavioral concerns when the root cause is a vision problem.

Make Back-to-School Eye Exams a Priority

The American Optometric Association recommends a full eye exam before first grade, and every one to two years thereafter. Catching and correcting problems early supports healthy development and academic success.

Final Thought

A simple eye exam can change a child’s school year—and life. Before school starts, make sure their vision is set for success.