Back-to-school season means new backpacks, fresh sneakers, and sharpened pencils. But before your child cracks open that first workbook, there’s one “supply” that deserves a spot at the very top of your list: a kids eye exam.
Because here’s the thing: your child’s eyes are their learning tools. From reading the whiteboard to catching a ball at recess, clear and comfortable vision makes a big difference in how they experience school and life. And the good news? As a parent, you can play a huge role in making their eye exam both productive and stress-free.
Step 1: Know When to Book
The Canadian Association of Optometrists recommends:
- First exam at 6 months
- Comprehensive exam by age 3
- Yearly exams from school age onward
Booking before school starts gives your child a fresh visual “reset” for the year ahead, so any issues are caught early, before they can affect learning or confidence.
Step 2: Spot the Signs at Home
Kids rarely say, “Hey, Mom, my vision’s blurry.” They just adapt, sometimes in ways that are easy to miss. In the weeks before your appointment, keep an eye out for:
- Squinting, covering one eye, or tilting their head
- Skipping words or losing their place while reading
- Complaining of headaches after school
- Avoiding puzzles, colouring, or sports
Bring up anything you notice during the exam, even if it seems minor. Those little details help your optometrist paint the full picture.
Step 3: Prep Your Child (Without Making It a Big Deal)
For younger kids, the unknown can be more intimidating than the exam itself. A few tricks:
- Explain in kid language: “We’re going to play some games to see how your eyes work.”
- Mention the fun stuff: special lights, letter charts, maybe even 3D pictures.
- Skip the “scary” details: No need to mention the “puff of air”, let the optometrist introduce that one!
- Do a “practice test” at home: Hold up letters or shapes and have them name them from across the room.
When the visit feels like an adventure rather than an appointment, kids tend to be much more relaxed.
Step 4: Ask Smart Questions
A kids eye exam isn’t just about finding out if they need glasses; it’s about understanding how their eyes are working. Here are a few parent-approved questions that get the best insights:
- Are my child’s eyes working together as they should?
- How’s their depth perception and ability to track moving objects?
- Are there signs of digital eye strain from screen time?
- If there’s a concern, what’s the best next step?
- Is there anything we can do at home to support healthy vision?
Step 5: Make It a Positive Ritual
Kids thrive on routines, so make their yearly exam part of a feel-good tradition. Maybe it’s lunch together afterwards, letting them choose their new frames, or stopping for a favourite treat. Positive associations now make them more willing participants next year.
Step 6: Keep the Momentum Going
Healthy vision is year-round. Between exams, encourage good habits:
- Take regular screen breaks (the 20-20-20 rule works wonders)
- Play outdoor games that challenge depth perception
- Watch for any new signs of eye strain or difficulty in school
Why It Matters
A back-to-school kids eye exam is one of the simplest, most impactful ways to set your child up for success: in the classroom, on the playground, and everywhere in between. With your support, they’ll head into the year seeing their best and feeling confident.
Ready to give your child a vision boost for the year ahead?
Book their back-to-school kids eye exam today and enjoy peace of mind knowing you’ve ticked off one of the most important items on your parenting checklist.
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