Back-to-School Eye Exams: Why Every Child Needs One

August and September often bring a whirlwind of preparation: shopping for school supplies, picking out new clothes, and getting organized for the year ahead. But one essential item often gets overlooked – your child’s eye exam. Clear vision is the foundation for success in reading, writing, using technology, and even sports. Without it, children may struggle to focus, fall behind academically, or appear to have attention issues when the real problem is their eyesight.

Many schools provide vision screenings, but these are not the same as a comprehensive eye exam. Screenings may miss common issues like eye teaming problems, focusing difficulties, or subtle prescription needs.

Only a pediatric eye doctor can fully evaluate your child’s vision and eye health, ensuring nothing gets in the way of their success this school year.

Why Schedule a Kids Eye Exam Before School Starts

The start of the school year is one of the busiest times for eye doctors. Booking your child’s exam early means avoiding the late-summer rush and ensuring they’re ready with updated prescriptions or new glasses before the first bell rings. Early appointments also give parents more time to explore frame options or consider contact lenses for teens.

Undetected vision problems can cause kids to lose confidence in the classroom, avoid reading, or complain of headaches and eye strain after screen use. By prioritizing an eye exam now, you’re giving your child the tools they need to thrive both in and out of the classroom.

What Happens During a Children’s Eye Exam at

A back-to-school eye exam is quick, comfortable, and tailored to your child’s age and needs.

During the exam, the pediatric eye doctor will:

• Check visual acuity (how clearly your child sees at different distances)
• Assess eye teaming and focusing skills, which are critical for reading and screen use
• Examine overall eye health, including checking for early signs of conditions like myopia (nearsightedness) or astigmatism

Parents often find reassurance in knowing these exams are non-invasive and kid-friendly. Whether your child is in kindergarten or high school, the process is designed to catch problems early and keep vision sharp all year long.

Eyewear for Kids: Durable, Stylish, and Classroom-Ready

If your child needs glasses, back-to-school is the perfect time to update their look. Today’s eyewear for kids goes far beyond the basics:

• Durable frames built to withstand recess, sports, and everyday play
• Fun, colorful styles kids will be excited to wear
• Lens upgrades like scratch resistance, UV protection, and blue light filters for screen-heavy days
• Prescription sunglasses for outdoor activities and sports

Many practices also offer “optician’s picks” or designer frames chosen specifically for kids and teens, giving families plenty of stylish options. Glasses aren’t just a necessity – they can be a confidence booster, too.

Contact Lenses for Teens: Freedom and Confidence

For active teens, contact lenses can be life-changing. They provide freedom from glasses, which can be especially helpful for sports, theater, or boosting self-esteem. A back-to-school contact lens fitting ensures your teen starts the year with clear, comfortable vision.

Options include:

• Daily disposable lenses for convenience and easy care
• Monthly lenses for teens ready for more responsibility
• Specialty lenses for astigmatism or myopia control (such as MiSight or Ortho-K)

A proper contact lens fitting ensures your teen learns safe wear and care habits from the start. It’s a great way to build independence while protecting long-term eye health.

Back-to-School Eye Exams in Moses Lake

Start the school year with clear, confident vision. At Advanced Eyecare Associates, we provide comprehensive kids’ eye exams, durable eyewear, and contact lens fittings for teens. By addressing vision before school begins, you’re setting your child up for success – in the classroom, on the field, and beyond.

Call today or schedule your child’s back-to-school eye exam online and browse our selection of kid-friendly frames and teen contact lens options.

FAQ: Back-to-School Eye Exams

How often should kids get an eye exam?
Children should have a comprehensive eye exam once a year, especially before the school year begins.

Can school vision screenings replace a pediatric eye exam?
No. Screenings may miss issues like eye teaming, focusing, or subtle prescriptions that affect learning.

At what age can my child start wearing contact lenses?
Many teens – and some older children – are ready once they show responsibility with hygiene. Your eye doctor will help determine readiness.

Do kids’ glasses really need UV or blue light protection?
Yes. These features protect against harmful UV rays and help reduce digital eye strain during school and homework.