As you prepare your kids to head to school this fall, remember to consider their eye care needs. Approximately 25 percent of all school-age children have vision problems. If left undiagnosed, these issues can interfere with learning and participation in social, physical and educational activities. Early detection, diagnosis, and treatment of vision problems lead to improved learning outcomes. Here’s how you can get your kids’ eye care needs taken care of before school starts.
Schedule an Eye Exam
Children should receive their first eye exam when they’re six months old, and then again when they’re both three years old and five years old. Afterwards, all children should have yearly exams to monitor their vision and eye health. You can make it a part of your annual back-to-school routine by adding an eye exam to your list of things to do.
Be Prepared
Eye exams don’t have to be scary. A little preparation can help children feel confident and ensure that their appointment runs smoothly. Here are a few ways to prepare for your kids’ eye exams:
Draw pictures of the eyes and discuss how they work
Role-play your visit
Read stories about getting eye exams
Bring a small toy to comfort them
Keep a list of medications, allergies and general health information handy
A comprehensive pediatric eye exam takes an average of only 15 minutes and involves getting your children’s medical history well as performing a vision test, alignment test, and eye health checkup.
Shop for Supplies
If your child needs glasses, the weeks before school restarts is an ideal time to make sure their glasses fit properly and are in good condition. It’s also a good idea to have a backup pair of glasses or contact lenses. Visit an Optometrists' Clinic eye care centre near you to stock up on glass cleaner, contact lens solution and other eye care products to get you through the busy year ahead.
Ask About the Eye See, Eye Learn Program
This program provides a free pair of prescription glasses to kindergarten-aged children who require them. To be eligible, they must have a comprehensive eye exam performed by a doctor of optometry. Most provinces, including Alberta, provide complete coverage for children’s eye exams.
Pediatric Eye Exams in Edmonton
Optometrists’ Clinic Inc. has five full-service eye care centres in Edmonton, Westlock and Leduc. We offer general, diabetic and pediatric eye exams. Our optometrists have the required training to care for your children’s eyes. Contact us today to book a pediatric eye exam.