If your child can’t see properly, he or she will have a difficult time learning. Makes sense, right? Yet 86% of kids start school without ever having an eye exam.

The American Optometric Association recently released the results of a survey which indicates that 88% of respondents didn’t realize that one in four students has a visual impairment. 

Other studies have shown that 60% of children labeled as “problem learners” may actually have undetected vision problems. The New Jersey Commission on Business Efficiency of the Public School reports that “undiagnosed and untreated vision related learning problems are significant contributors to early reading difficulties and ultimately to special education classification.”

As I have said before, I have seen complete turnarounds in school and self esteem when an undetected vision problem is addressed. I remember an aloof young girl that was made to sit on a stool by herself in the corner of the classroom by the teacher because “maybe then she would pay attention.”  I found that she needed glasses and could not focus her eyes. Soon after treatment she won an award for the most improved student, went into the top reading group, and was a smiling participant in the classroom. No one had ever recommended an eye exam to her parents.

Arizona Cardinals 2008 NFC West Champion’s wide receiver, Larry Fitzgerald, has recently stated in the media, “Vision problems can have a serious impact on a child’s education. Don’t wait to see if this school year will be better. Take action today!” Larry experienced vision problems that affected his ability to pay attention in school. His grandfather, Dr. Robert Johnson, an optometrist, diagnosed the vision problem and the appropriate treatment. Larry reports that this treatment was one of the keys to his success.

The American Optometric Association recommends the first eye assessment take place at 6 months of age followed by a comprehensive exam at 3 years of age, and then every two years thereafter unless directed otherwise by the eye doctor. Screenings are not nearly as reliable as a full exam.

This and every school year parents and teachers should watch for the following behaviors in kids:

• Squints when reading or watching TV
• Avoids close work
• Omits or substitutes small words when reading
• Consistently performs below potential
• Holds reading material close to their face
• Struggles to finish homework
• Tendency to rub eyes
• Behavioral problems
• Frequent headaches
• Frequent reversals when reading or writing
• Uses a finger to keep place when reading
• Loses place when reading
• Turns or tilts head when looking at something

An eye exam is indicated if you notice the above. Remember to get your own eyes examined regularly as well. Many eye conditions are successfully treated if detected early enough and this is usually before these conditions are noticed by the patient. Also the eye exam is like a second physical. Eye doctors are sometimes the first to detect high blood pressure, diabetes, and other systemic conditions. Do your family a favor and get everyone’s eyes examined. 

Stay tuned and BeWell!