Many professionals emphasize that almost 80% of learning occurs through a child's eyes. Since a child's vision may change occasionally, consistent eye and vision care is crucial to a student's classroom success. Surprisingly, most parents are not including vision tests as part of their child's back-to-school health check-up. In addition survey results demonstrate that 58% of parents don't bring their child for an eye screening until age three or older. The AOA actually suggests that children have their first sight screening at half a year, then thorough vision examinations beginning at age three, before starting school. Screenings should continue to be scheduled routinely every two years after.
Many of the issues a child suffers from in school may be the result of vision impairment. The number of children who have undiagnosed vision problems is quite large. Over 60% of children identified as "problem learners" really have undetected vision troubles. You can avoid childhood trauma if you take a proactive role in ensuring your child is seeing properly.
Don't wait until your child enters kindergarten for his first complete eye exam. Your child's doctor should perform a dilated eye exam to detect any major eye problems by the first two months after birth. Every child should have a comprehensive eye exam by age three, as early intervention can affect development. Furthermore as a parent, it's important to see whether your child takes time to read. Generally, preschoolers are excited to look at books and try and figure out words. Children that don't read books may be experiencing a vision impairment. A thorough vision screening by a pediatric optometrist should be one of the methods used in making a diagnosis. For a pediatric eye exam in Frederick, MD, call us to schedule an appointment.
Remember that the sooner a vision impairment is detected and treated, the more likely treatment will be successful. And eyesight is an essential component for school. If a child's vision is impaired, he will have a much harder time in the classroom. At the same time new technology in the classroom, such as using interactive SMARTboards, can also possibly exacerbate less obvious vision impairments. Without healthy vision, students may struggle not only at school, but also socially. This year, guarantee your child a super year in school, by making sure their eyesight is in perfect condition. Contact us to book a Frederick, MD eye exam today.
