Healthy vision is the foundation for a child’s success in school and beyond. As families in North Edmonton and Downtown Edmonton gear up for the back-to-school season, scheduling a pediatric eye exam at Village Eye Centre can make all the difference.
Why Eye Exams Matter More Than School Screenings
Back-to-school season often comes with a quick vision screening at school. While these can catch some vision issues, they miss many other vision problems. A comprehensive eye exam checks not just how clearly your child can see but also how their eyes work together and focus. During your child's eye exam, our optometrists assess:
- Eye focusing: The ability to switch from near to far objects
- Eye tracking: Following moving objects across a page or screen
- Depth perception: Crucial for reading and sports
- Colour perception: Identifying colours correctly in class
- Eye teaming: Both eyes working together
- Overall eye health: Detecting conditions early, like lazy eye or myopia
6 Back-to-School Vision Tips for Busy Families
Preparing for the school year is about more than supplies and new clothes — healthy vision should be part of the checklist. Here are practical tips for parents in North Edmonton:
1. Schedule Annual Eye Exams
A yearly comprehensive exam ensures your child’s vision is ready for the classroom. Early detection helps prevent minor issues from turning into significant challenges.
2. Watch for Warning Signs
If your child squints, tilts their head, or complains about headaches, it could signal a vision issue. Acting quickly keeps them from falling behind in school.
3. Choose Frames They’ll Love
Children are more likely to wear prescription glasses consistently if they like how they look. Pick durable frames with styles that reflect their personality.
4. Protective Eyewear During Sports
Sports eyewear prevents injuries and helps children see clearly during play. Impact-resistant frames and lenses provide both safety and confidence.
5. Limit Screen Time — With Help
Blue-light blocking lenses reduce the risk of eye strain from digital devices like tablets, computers, and phones. Pair them with regular breaks from screens to protect eye health.
6. Make Eye Care Part of the Routine
Link eye care habits to the school schedule — for example, cleaning glasses before packing lunches or using rewetting drops after homework. This makes vision care feel natural, not forced.
Keeping Up with Eye Care Trends as a Family
Busy families often juggle multiple schedules, and vision care sometimes slips through the cracks. Fortunately, keeping up with eye care has never been easier. Modern technology and advanced lenses make it possible to protect your child’s eyes while also addressing lifestyle needs. Parents and children alike are choosing:
- UV-protective sunglasses for outdoor activities
- Transition lenses that adapt from classroom lighting to the playground
- Multifocal contact lenses for teens managing both schoolwork and sports
- Fashion-forward frames that encourage children to wear their glasses
At Village Eye Centre, we help parents stay current by offering frame lines and lens options that balance durability, safety, and style.
Invest in Healthy Eyes for a Successful School Year in North Edmonton & Downtown Edmonton
Back-to-school season is the perfect time to make eye care a priority for your family. At Village Eye Centre, we provide comprehensive exams, modern eyewear, and compassionate care tailored to children and parents alike.
Healthy eyes mean confident learners, fewer distractions in class, and a smoother school year. Schedule a comprehensive eye exam. We’re here to help your family step into the new school year with clear vision and confidence.
Back-to-School Vision FAQs
How often should children have an eye exam?
The Canadian Association of Optometrists recommends regular eye exams starting at 6 months, 3 years, before kindergarten, and every year thereafter.
Do school screenings replace an eye exam?
No. Screenings only check basic vision. A comprehensive eye exam evaluates how eyes focus, move, and work together.
What are the signs my child might need glasses?
Squinting, frequent headaches, sitting close to screens, losing their place when reading, or rubbing their eyes often.