As the back-to-school season approaches, parents are preparing their children for the classroom—buying supplies, scheduling physicals, and checking off to-do lists. But one critical task often gets overlooked: scheduling a comprehensive eye exam.
At True Vision, we help families in Lancaster understand that even if a child appears to see well, vision problems may still exist. Many children don’t realize they’re experiencing symptoms because they’ve never known anything different. That’s why routine eye exams are a vital part of every child’s annual health care routine.
Why Routine Pediatric Eye Exams Are Essential
Children often adapt to poor vision without realizing there’s a problem. They may tilt their heads, squint, or sit too close to the board or screen without saying anything. Comprehensive eye exams detect:
- Refractive errors like nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism
- Binocular vision issues, affecting how the eyes work together
- Eye health concerns that aren’t visible externally
Unlike a quick vision screening, a full eye exam by an experienced optometrist evaluates how your child’s entire visual system is functioning—and whether any support is needed.
The Limitations of School Vision Screenings
School vision screenings are not diagnostic tools. While convenient, they usually only test distance vision and can miss more complex issues. Screenings typically do not assess:
- How well the eyes work together (eye teaming and tracking)
- Focusing ability, especially at near distances
- Subtle signs of underlying eye disease
These are critical components of your child’s visual development and academic success. At True Vision, our detailed exams provide a much more complete picture.
Why Pediatricians Aren’t Enough for Vision Care
While pediatricians provide valuable care, their vision checks are limited. They may use basic eye charts, but they don’t have the tools or training to detect the range of eye issues that optometrists regularly identify in children.
Many eye conditions go unnoticed without a thorough exam—and untreated vision problems can lead to learning delays, behavioral issues, and frustration in school.
No Family History? Your Child Still Needs an Exam
Even if no one in your family wears glasses, your child may still develop vision issues. Genetics is only one factor. Many eye problems are developmental or environmental, influenced by screen time, reading habits, or rapid growth phases.
The earlier a vision problem is diagnosed, the more effective the treatment. Annual exams help ensure your child has the visual tools they need to succeed.
Schedule Before the School Year Begins
Visual demands increase as kids return to the classroom—reading, computer use, and long hours of near work all place strain on the eyes. Don’t wait until your child starts struggling with schoolwork to seek care.
Dr. Blake and the eye care staff at True Vision provide gentle, thorough, and kid-friendly eye exams for families in Lancaster. We take the time to explain findings, answer your questions, and create a comfortable environment for young patients.
Frequently Asked Questions
When should my child have their first eye exam?
The American Optometric Association recommends eye exams at 6–12 months, at age 3, and every year starting at school age.
Is a school vision screening enough?
No. Screenings miss many important aspects of vision, such as eye coordination, tracking, and signs of internal eye health issues.
My child hasn't complained about their eyes. Do they still need an exam?
Yes. Children often don’t recognize when their vision is impaired because they’ve never experienced clear vision for comparison.
Is the exam uncomfortable?
Not at all. Pediatric exams are designed to be stress-free and engaging for children of all ages.