As summer winds down and the school year approaches, there’s a lot to check off your to-do list, from school supplies and new clothes to updated schedules. However, there’s one important step that often gets overlooked: your child’s annual eye exam.
At Vision Care Group, we provide thorough, personalized pediatric eye exams in Naperville and Plainfield to help students start the year with clear, comfortable vision. With nearby schools like Prairie Elementary, Naperville North High School, Lincoln Elementary, and Plainfield Central High School, scheduling a back-to-school eye exam has never been easier.
Find out why back-to-school eye exams are important, how often kids should see an eye doctor, and what signs indicate a vision problem.
Why back-to-school eye exams matter
Vision plays a significant role in your child’s learning, from reading and writing to seeing the board and following along in class. In fact, studies found that 80% of classroom learning is visual. In addition, one in every four children in the U.S. has a vision problem that requires treatment.
Many vision problems in kids go undetected. Children don’t always realize they aren’t seeing clearly, and they often assume what they see is normal. If left unaddressed, these problems can affect academic performance, confidence, and focus in school.
School vision screenings vs. pediatric eye exams: What’s the difference?
Your child may receive a basic vision screening at school, but that’s no substitute for a comprehensive eye exam. School vision screenings are helpful, but they’re limited. They typically only test distance vision and may miss other important issues like eye teaming, focusing ability, or signs of lazy eye.
Here’s a quick look at the differences:
School vision screening
- Quick and limited
- May miss hidden vision problems
- Often administered by non-eye care professionals
Comprehensive pediatric eye exam
- Performed by an experienced optometrist
- Evaluates near and distance vision, eye movement, and coordination
- Screens for conditions like amblyopia (lazy eye), strabismus (eye turn), and more
Each exam at Vision Care Group is customized to your child’s age, needs, and risk factors to ensure nothing is missed.
Warning signs your child may be struggling with their vision
Kids don’t always speak up about vision issues, but there are subtle signs that can hint that something is wrong. Watch for these signs of vision problems in children:
- Squinting or tilting the head
- Holding books or screens very close
- Rubbing their eyes frequently
- Complaining of headaches
- Losing their place while reading
- Avoiding reading or schoolwork
- Short attention span
- One eye turning in or out
If you’ve noticed any of these symptoms, it’s a good idea to schedule an eye exam before school starts.
How often should kids get their eyes checked?
According to the American Optometric Association (AOA), children should see their eye doctor regularly starting at an early age:
- 6–12 months: Your child’s first eye exam to catch early issues
- 3–5 years: This exam checks visual development and eye alignment
- Before first grade: Ensures they have the visual skills needed for school
- School-age kids: Every two years or annually if they wear glasses or contact lenses
Children with a family history of eye problems, developmental delays, or premature birth may need more frequent care.
Why choose Vision Care Group for your child?
At Vision Care Group, we’re proud to care for families in Naperville, Plainfield, and surrounding communities with compassion and expertise. Here’s what makes us a trusted choice:
Personalized pediatric eye care
We take time to make sure your child feels comfortable during their visit. Our exams are tailored to your child’s age and needs, and we use a calm, encouraging approach.
Stylish, kid-approved eyewear
If your child needs prescription eyewear, we offer a great selection of children’s glasses that are fun, durable, and designed to fit little faces comfortably.
Trusted by local families
We’re conveniently located near many local schools, including Ellsworth Elementary, Neuqua Valley High School, John F. Kennedy Middle School, and Plainfield East High School, making it easy to fit appointments into your routine.
Schedule your child’s back-to-school eye exam before school starts
When your child sees clearly, learning comes more easily. A thorough eye exam sets them up for a school year full of confidence and success.
Schedule your child’s back-to-school eye exam at Vision Care Group. Appointments fill quickly this time of year, so don’t wait. Give us a call at an office nearest you.