With summer coming to an end, parents across the country are preparing their kids to return to the classroom. Back-to-school shopping aside, one step you should take to ensure your little one’s success in the coming school year is scheduling an eye exam for them. Find out why this annual test is necessary for a good education. 

Why Seeing In School Matters

Studies have shown that a child’s vision substantially impacts their school performance. This is especially true in the first 12 years of education when 80% of learning is done visually. If a child can’t see the front of the classroom or struggles to read text in books or on screens in front of them, they are at a disadvantage. When kids are unable to engage with a lesson because of poor eyesight, they quickly lose focus, which can lead to disruptive actions in the classroom and behavioral issues—further setting them back in comparison to their classmates.

What an Eye Exam Accomplishes

Recognizing the influence of healthy eyesight on academic success, many schools mandate eye exams for first-time school kids. An annual check is needed, however, since sight can change with age. Additionally, a comprehensive eye exam not only assesses vision, but also checks for eye diseases.

Parents should monitor kids for signs they may be struggling to see clearly, like squinting, rubbing their eyes, and tilting their heads. Ideally, however, a pre-school vision exam will catch any issues before such symptoms present themselves.

Located in Honolulu, HI, Nelson O. Yoshioka Jr., O.D., has provided residents across Oahu with comprehensive eye care services since 1998. He and his team are accustomed to working with patients of all ages and are skilled at making young kids feel at ease during eye exams. Find out more about the optometrist’s services online, and schedule an appointment before school starts by calling (808) 734-7050.