A Clear Vision for a Bright Future
As the new school year begins, Optometrist Warehouse is encouraging parents to prioritise their children's eye health. With 80% of learning presented visually in classrooms, ensuring clear vision is essential for academic success and overall development.
Many children experience undiagnosed vision problems, which can impact their confidence, concentration, and learning. Common issues such as myopia (short-sightedness), amblyopia (lazy eye), and strabismus (crossed eyes) can go unnoticed without a professional eye test.
When Should a Child Have Their First Eye Test?
Optometrists recommend that children have their first eye test by the age of three. By detecting vision issues early, parents can ensure their child starts school with the best possible chance of success.
During an eye test, an optometrist will check for:
✔️ Visual acuity – clarity of vision at different distances
✔️ Refractive errors – whether glasses or contact lenses are needed
✔️ Eye coordination & alignment – how well the eyes work together
✔️ Colour vision and depth perception – crucial for learning and sports
✔️ Eye health – screening for early signs of eye disease, including keratoconus.
Check out our blog - What Happens in an Eye Examination - for more details.
Common Signs of Vision Problems in Kids (and Adults!)
Not all vision issues are obvious without an eye examination, particularly in children.
Some common signs that may indicate problems with eyesight include:
- Squinting or frequent eye rubbing
- Complaints of headaches or tired eyes
- Difficulty reading or holding books very close
- Sitting too close to screens
- Closing one eye to see better
- One eye turning in or out
- Difficulty concentrating on reading or writing
Regular eye tests are advised for everyone, even if there are no signs of sight issues.
Keratoconus – A Hidden Threat to Young Eyes
One often-overlooked condition in children and teenagers is keratoconus, a progressive thinning of the cornea that can cause blurred or distorted vision. While early signs can be subtle, it is critical to diagnose keratoconus as soon as possible to prevent severe vision loss.
Signs of keratoconus include:
- Frequent changes in prescription glasses
- Blurry or distorted vision that does not improve with glasses
- Increased sensitivity to light and glare
- Eye strain and headaches
Screening for keratoconus is now a standard part of comprehensive children’s eye exams at Optometrist Warehouse, ensuring early intervention and the best possible outcomes for young patients.
Managing Myopia (Short-sightedness) in Kids
With the rise of digital screen use in and out of the classroom, more children are developing myopia (short-sightedness). Left unmanaged, myopia can progress, increasing the risk of eye diseases later in life.
Optometrist Warehouse offers advanced solutions to manage and control progression of myopia, including:
👁 Atropine eye drops
Low-dose atropine drops can slow myopia progression by relaxing the eye’s focusing mechanism.
👓 Specialised lenses
Specially designed glasses or contact lenses can help slow myopia progression.
🌿 More outdoor time
Encourage at least 2 hours outdoors daily. Natural light is beneficial for healthy eye development.
📱 Screen time limits
Taking regular breaks from ‘near’ tasks (such as reading or screen use) to reduce eye strain.
📅 Regular eye exams
Myopia often begins in childhood; frequent check-ups are important to monitor changes.
Book an Eye Test Today!
Good vision is key to a child’s education, confidence, and well-being. A routine eye test is quick, painless, and can make a significant difference in a child's life. Optometrist Warehouse is committed to making high-quality eye care accessible for all families, offering bulk-billed eye tests for eligible Medicare patients.
Don’t wait! Book a comprehensive eye test at Optometrist Warehouse today and ensure your child’s vision is ready for the school year.
