As classroom learning becomes more digital, taking care of kids’ eyes is more important than ever.
With back-to-school time approaching, we want to remind patients how important healthy eyes are to learning.
According to experts, 80 percent of what students are taught is presented visually, which makes healthy eyes one of the most important tools for the classroom. But that’s not the only reason to stay on top of regular check-ups and eye care.
- According to the American Optometric Association, more than 41 percent of parents report their children use digital devices more than three hours a day. With increasing use of technology at school and home, it’s important to stay on top of issues related to digital eye strain.
- One in four children has a vision problem that could affect learning if left untreated, per Prevent Blindness America. A comprehensive eye exam is the best way to detect, prevent and treat vision problems.
- The Vision Council reports that eye care providers are seeing an increase in myopia among children. Research points to the rise in near-vision activities like using digital devices and a decline in time spent outdoors in natural light as possible contributors.
Unfortunately, many parents are unaware of the importance of annual eye exams for kids. More than half (60%) don’t feel an eye exam is an essential part of a child’s healthy checkup schedule, based on a recent survey of more than 1,000 parents. You can find more information on eye health for children here.
The State of Illinois requires that all students entering a public, private or parochial schools, starting at kindergarten, have their eyes examined by a licensed optometrist. Even if your child is returning to the same school, annual exams are recommended for keeping their eyes healthy.