Eyes Ready for School
Approximately 80% of what students learn in their early years is through their eyes.
As many as 1 in 5 Australian children has an undetected vision problem.
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These problems can affect their academic performance, self esteem and social development.
As part of the School Ties Community Led Projects, Our Optometrist Dr Marrwa Hafez has introduced the Eyes Ready for School Initiative.
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The campaign aims to raise awareness amongst families and children about the importance of eye examinations and the role of optometry in their general wellbeing. As an extension to the eyes ready for school book, this page shares some useful tips for parents to recognise the need for an eye test.
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It is important that children have at least on eye test by an optometrist before they begin school, then yearly after that. This is one way to ensure that your child's eyes are ready for school.
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Here are some common signs that your child might need an eye test:
Blurry vision
If your child squints their eyes often, or comes very close to their books/screen, this can be a sign of a vision problem.
Your child may also complain that the school board is not clear, or that they cant see clearly like their classmates when in the classroom.
Double vision or eye turns
If your child complains that things become double, this can be a sign of an eye misalignment. Their eyes might also appear to ''cross'' or drift outwards. This may not happen all the time, and a careful assessment by the optometrist can detect this.
Red and itchy eyes
Children may suffer from allergic eye diseases or even infections, especially within the school environment. Accurate diagnosis and treatment is important to use the correct eye drop for their condition. Antibiotic eye drops for example, should not be used, and do not help, if your child has an eye allergy.
Disliking school work
This is not a specific sign of an eye problem, but some undiagnosed vision problems can interfere with your child's experience at school. It could cause headaches, dizziness and difficulty completing tasks. This is why regular eye examinations, even if your child's eyes appear normal, are essential
