Kids eye health on back-to-school checklist
Parents urged to book an eye test for their kids and avoid undiagnosed vision problems
An Australian school principal warns that undiagnosed vision problems amongst young children can
lead to poor school results and learning difficulties.
According to Melbourne’s Gilson College principal Mark Vodell, who has over 25 years teaching
experience, many school children can struggle at school due to undetected vision problems.
To combat this Specsavers are urging parents to include an eye test for their children as part of the
back-to-school preparations this month.
Short sightedness or Myopia, which is increasingly common amongst children, is one of the key
reasons why many kids find it hard to read the blackboard at school.
The tell tale signs of Myopia are screwing up the eyes to see distant objects, difficulty reading the blackboard at school and sitting very close to the television.
“Undiagnosed vision problems can be a real set-back to children starting school and can impact their
learning and socialisation,” Mark said.
“As parents start organising their children’s uniforms, textbooks and stationary for school, they must
not forget about their children’s eye health. A quick and simple eye test can ensure their child’s eyes
are fit and ready for the new school year.”
Specsavers have put together some hints and tips on how parents can spot if their child may
need glasses;
Squinting – If your child’s teacher says they frequently squint at the blackboard, they may be trying to
compensate for their poor vision short term.
Sitting too close to the television – Short-sighted children generally have clear vision at a close
range and poor vision at a distance.
Rubbing eyes and headaches – If your child rubs their eyes excessively or complains of headaches
regularly, it may mean their eye muscles are fatigued from straining.
Reading problems – Children who frequently skip lines or lose their place while reading books have
vision associated problems.
Specsavers optometrists have plenty of experience testing children and the stores offer a wide range
of fun and colourful frames to suit every child.
Recent research from Specsavers shows that more than four in five (83%) of Australian parents have had to make sacrifices or reduce their essential spending to pay for their children’s glasses*.
The children’s frame range at Specsavers starts from $179 for two pairs at one low price, including standard single vision PENTAX lenses, offering parents value for money as well as the reassurance
that their child has a spare glasses in case of any accidents or mishaps in the playground.
