As children head back to school, parents are busy checking off their back-to-school lists. New clothes, school supplies, backpacks—and one important item that shouldn’t be overlooked: your child’s eye health.

Good vision is essential for learning. Children use their eyes to read, write, see the classroom board, use digital devices, participate in sports, and much more. A comprehensive eye exam for children can help identify vision problems that may otherwise go unnoticed.

A Vision Screening Isn’t a Comprehensive Eye Exam

School vision screenings are helpful for identifying children who may have difficulty seeing clearly, but they don’t provide the same level of evaluation as a comprehensive eye exam.

During a comprehensive eye exam, Dr. Valeria Rubinstein can evaluate your child’s visual acuity, focusing ability, eye coordination, and overall eye health. Some vision problems can be difficult for children to recognize or explain because they may simply assume that everyone sees the way they do.

Signs Your Child May Need an Eye Exam

Parents and teachers may notice signs that a child is having difficulty with their vision, including:

• Squinting or closing one eye
• Sitting very close to the TV or computer
• Holding books or devices unusually close
• Frequent headaches or eye rubbing
• Difficulty reading or losing their place while reading
• Complaining that the classroom board looks blurry
• Avoiding reading or other close-up activities
• Tilting or turning their head to see better

Even if your child doesn’t have any of these symptoms, regular comprehensive eye exams can help monitor their vision and eye health as they grow.

Don’t Overlook Screen Time

Back-to-school routines often mean more time on computers, tablets, and other digital devices. Extended screen use can contribute to tired, dry, or irritated eyes and temporary blurry vision.

Encourage your child to take regular breaks from screens, blink frequently, and spend time outdoors. If they regularly complain of eye discomfort or blurry vision, an eye exam can help determine the cause.

Schedule Your Child’s Back-to-School Eye Exam

A new school year is the perfect time to make your child’s vision and eye health a priority. A school screening is helpful, but it shouldn’t take the place of a comprehensive eye exam.

If your child is due for an eye exam, schedule an appointment with Dr. Valeria Rubinstein at NY Eye Care. Early detection of vision problems can help ensure your child has the clear, comfortable vision they need to learn and thrive throughout the school year.

Book your child’s eye exam today and start the school year with healthy vision!