Get Kids’ Eyes Ready for Back to School
Congratulations: You stocked up on new backpacks, lunch boxes, PE shoes and probably so much more. But as nice as all of these extras are, high-quality comfortable vision is one of the most important things your kids need when they go back to school. With each passing year, as kids grow, their needs, interests and lifestyles change, which means their vision needs change too. Since what worked last year may not be the best choice this fall, here are some tips to help you get your big and little kids started on the right foot this school year.
Schedule an Eye Exam. Getting your child’s eyes ready for back to school begins with an eye exam. Many schools offer free vision screenings. Don’t let this lull you into a false sense of security. A comprehensive eye exam is very different than a vision screening and can diagnose and address a spectrum of conditions not captured by stand-alone eye chart tests.1 In fact, the American Optometric Association says eye and vision care ought to be given the same level of importance and attention as other standard medical practices, such as dental care and vaccinations.1 Evaluate Growth and Changing Needs. During the visit, talk to the doctor about your child’s interests and lifestyle. Does he or she play sports, read a lot (you wish!), get headaches or often lose eyeglasses? All of this information can help guide the doctor to more suitable vision correction options when needed. For example, student athletes who wear contact lenses don’t have to worry about their glasses slipping due to sweat. Plus, they often enjoy better vision, and have more options for protective eyewear and sunwear.
Get Supplies in Order. If you have teens or college-bound kids who won’t be home as often as you’d like, good backup plans may be needed. For example, does your child have an extra pair of glasses and a complete supply of contact lenses and lens care equipment? Discuss all of this with your doctor so there are no surprises the night before a big test or a championship game. And don’t forget, lens cases need to be replaced too. According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology contact lens cases should be replaced every three months.2 If you’re not completely confident that your son or daughter will clean and store contact lenses safely, talk to the doctor about daily disposables, such as MyDay®
Get Supplies in Order. If you have teens or college-bound kids who won’t be home as often as you’d like, good backup plans may be needed. For example, does your child have an extra pair of glasses and a complete supply of contact lenses and lens care equipment? Discuss all of this with your doctor so there are no surprises the night before a big test or a championship game. And don’t forget, lens cases need to be replaced too. According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology contact lens cases should be replaced every three months.2 If you’re not completely confident that your son or daughter will clean and store contact lenses safely, talk to the doctor about daily disposables, such as MyDay®