Seven Things to Know About School-Age Vision Screenings

Back to school may mean gathering school supplies, earlier bedtimes, and carpooling. As your child heads to the start of another school year, you want to give them the tools they need to be successful.

Identifying vision issues is vital to helping children be successful in school. In fact, incorrect vision issues can become a barrier to learning. This is why many schools offer vision screening at the start of the school year. A school nurse or other qualified healthcare professional performs vision screenings.

It is helpful for parents and caregivers to understand what vision screenings are and what they are not. Continue reading for several facts related to school-age vision screening. 
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Poor vision may adversely affect academic performance. Research in the Journal Children found that better vision was associated with improved school performance. Visual function significantly affects social, emotional, and intellectual development. When children have untreated vision problems, their academic performance, development, and self-esteem may suffer.

All school-age children should have a vision screening. Since any child can develop vision problems, a vision screening is important for all school-age children. A vision screening is a brief test of visual acuity to identify problems your child may have with their vision.

Vision screening offerings and requirements vary by state. According to the Cleveland Clinic,  41 states offer some type of vision assessment for school-age children. However, the methods and frequency of the screening can vary widely. For example, currently, only six states require a vision screening at least every other year. Some states may do screening much less frequently.

Vision screenings usually occur during elementary school, but identifying vision problems as early as preschool is helpful. Only 26 states require vision screening for preschool-age children.

A comprehensive eye exam differs from a vision screening. A vision screening is a basic test designed to identify reduced vision. However, it does not diagnose the specific eye condition. A comprehensive eye exam provides more information to diagnose the condition causing visual problems.

Vision screenings often check visual acuity. Different schools use different methods to check visual acuity. For instance, many schools may use eye charts to ensure children can see letters, numbers, or shapes.

Vision screenings do not tell the entire story. While a vision screening is one way to determine if a child has vision issues, it does not provide a complete understanding of a child’s eye health. Vision screenings for school-age children are useful, but they have limitations. If parents suspect their children have vision issues, they should come in for a comprehensive eye exam and not rely on a vision screening alone.

Certain factors indicate your child should have a comprehensive eye exam. There are certain instances where your child needs a comprehensive eye exam to help make a diagnosis. Consider having your child undergo a comprehensive eye exam in the following situations:

• Your child does not pass a vision screening
• You are referred to an eye doctor by the school nurse for suspected vision issues
• Your child has risk factors for an eye disease, such as certain congenital conditions, including Down syndrome or prematurity
• Your child has delayed development
• Your child wears glasses

Remember, diagnosing visual problems early can help find the right treatment. In some cases, eyeglasses or contact lenses may solve the problem. Correcting vision problems as soon as they are identified helps set your child up for success.
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If you have any questions about vision screenings or if you would like to ask whether an appointment with one of our eye doctors would be appropriate at this time, call our office at 508-746-8600.