Back to School Eye Exams

For most children and their parents, it probably seems like school has just been out for a few weeks, but the next school year is just around the corner. One of the most important things parents can do to ensure their children are ready to take on the challenges of a new school year is to take them to get a back-to-school eye exam.

Vision problems can affect your child's ablilty to learn. According to the Vision Council of America, approximately 80% of all learning during a child's first 12 years is obtained through the eyes; yet 86% of children do not receive a vision exam during that time. It is estimated that 20% of preschool children ages 3-4 have a treatable eye condition. Yet, less than one in five children has had an eye exam before entering school.

A child's vision may experience frequent changes and he or she may not realize a problem exists. Problems may range from seeing a blurred chalkboard to reading difficulties and poor concentration from poor eye movement, focusing and coordination.

Here listed are some symptoms that may assist in the early detection of eye and vision difficulties:

• Blurring of vision at any time
• A short attention span or frequent daydreaming
• Difficulty remembering what is read
• Loss of place while reading
• Poor eye-hand coordination when copying, throwing, buttoning clothing or tying shoes
• Frequent eye rubbing, blinking or squinting
• Poor reading ability

In Missouri, children must have an eye screening before entering school for the first time, but it is also important to continue annual back-to-school eye exams, especially in the elementary grades. It is too important not to give every child every advantage to excel in school.

Call our office today to schedule an appointment at 573-785-5500. Enjoy the rest of your summer!

Dr. Troy L. Bell

Dr. Troy Bell graduated from Indiana University-School of Optometry and has been in practice in Poplar Bluff for over 12 years and is therapeutically licensed to diagnose and treat various ocular diseases. He is involved in the mission efforts of Fellowship of Christian Optometrists; in providing eye care to third world countries. "I love my practice here and am devoted to my patients eye care."