Good eyesight is very important in school children because it affects how they learn and perform in school and at play. When their vision suffers, so will their education and sports participation.
As they age, kids’ school books become thicker, and text becomes smaller. The increased amount of schoolwork requires them to use their learning tools more in order to keep up with academics.
In this article, vision care specialist, Northern Virginia Doctors of Optometry, discusses why it is important for school-age children to regularly visit an eye doctor.
Recommended Eye Exam Frequency for Children Ages 6 and Above
It’s important for children to have good vision so they can pursue their aspirations like music, art, or sports. Trust your children’s vision to eye care specialists, who will not only take care of their sight, but also give them the confidence to continue their passions.
According to the American Optometric Association, children ages six and older should have their eyes checked prior to entering first grade and annually thereafter. However, some children who are at risk of developing vision problems may be required to get their eyes tested more frequently.
Children are at higher risk of vision problems if they have any of the following:
Born prematurely, have low birth weight or prolonged supplemental oxygen at birth
Family background of vision problems
Mother experienced an infection, smoked, drank alcohol or used illicit substances during pregnancy
Academic performance problems
Experienced fetal stress due to difficult or assisted labor
High or progressive refractive error
Strabismus or when the eyes fail to maintain proper alignment
Nearsightedness or farsightedness
Neurodevelopmental disorders
Wearing contact lenses
Vision in only one eye
Previous eye injury
Taking prescription or nonprescription drugs, which have potential vision side effects
Take Care of Your Child’s Vision
At Northern Virginia Doctors of Optometry, we provide the best pediatric eye care. You can count on us if your child is having learning, reading or behavioral problems. We also have vision specialists for children diagnosed with learning disability, developmental delay, ADD or ADHD, dyslexia or autism.
Aside from that, we specialize in LASIK eye surgery and cataracts treatment as well. Call us at (703) 573-1200, or complete our online form to schedule an appointment. We cater to the eye care needs of patients in Falls Church, VA.
