As families prepare for the new school year, many parents work through the usual checklist: new shoes, new pencils, sticking labels on everything. But there’s one important item that’s often overlooked: an eye test.
Children’s vision plays a crucial role in learning, behaviour and confidence at school. Yet many kids don’t realise they have a vision problem. To them, the way they see the world is “normal,” even if the board is blurry or reading is uncomfortable. That’s why parents need to be strong advocates for their children’s eye care.
More children are becoming shortsighted than ever before. Compared to previous generations, today’s kids spend far more time doing close work, particular digital devices and far less time outdoors. This shift is contributing to a rise in vision problems at younger ages.
Undetected vision issues can quietly affect a child’s ability to concentrate, read, follow instructions and participate confidently in the classroom. They can also impact behaviour, as children who struggle to see may become frustrated, tired or disengaged. Often, these problems aren’t obvious, and it takes more than a parent’s keen eye to pick them up.
The good news is that early detection makes a real difference. Identifying vision problems early allows for timely treatment and better long-term outcomes, particularly as a child’s eyes are still developing.
We recommend a comprehensive eye test before starting kindergarten, and then every two years throughout school or sooner if concerns arise. As part of your back-to-school routine, adding an eye test to the checklist is a simple step that can have a lasting impact on your child’s learning and wellbeing. Book your child’s eye appointment on 6963 5577 or www.hansenoptom.com