Backpacks? Check. School supplies? Check. Eye exam? If that last item didn’t make your back-to-school checklist, you’re not alone. But your child’s eyesight could be the most important school supply of all.
At Regional Eye Center, we serve families across Southwest Georgia with one goal in mind: helping every child see clearly so they can thrive in and out of the classroom. A child’s visual system is responsible for up to 80% of learning in school—yet many vision issues go undetected, especially when parents rely only on basic school screenings.
Why School Vision Screenings Aren’t Enough
It’s a common misconception that school vision screenings are all a child needs. These screenings typically measure distance vision and may catch nearsightedness, but they often miss conditions like:
- Farsightedness
- Eye teaming and tracking issues
- Focus flexibility
- Visual processing delays
- Early signs of eye strain or digital fatigue
These hidden problems can impact your child’s ability to read, write, and concentrate—and can be misinterpreted as learning difficulties or attention disorders.
That’s why a comprehensive pediatric eye exam at Regional Eye Center goes beyond the basics. We evaluate how the eyes work together, how they process visual information, and how well your child can sustain focus through a full day of learning.
How Often Should Kids Have Eye Exams?
The American Optometric Association recommends:
- First eye exam at 6–12 months
- Second exam at age 3
- Before starting kindergarten
- Annually throughout school years
Our optometric team in Americus and Leesburg provides a welcoming environment for children of all ages, from toddlers to teens. We make the process easy, comfortable, and even fun—because we believe that lifelong eye health starts with a good first experience.
Signs Your Child Might Need an Eye Exam
Children don’t always know they’re not seeing clearly. Watch for signs like:
- Squinting or sitting too close to the TV
- Headaches, especially after reading
- Avoiding near work or reading
- Losing their place while reading
- Rubbing eyes frequently
- Tilting their head or covering one eye
If your child is showing any of these signs—or even if they aren’t—it’s a great time to book an eye exam.
Set Your Child Up for Academic Success in Americus & Leesburg, GA
We believe vision is the foundation for success. Our experienced eye doctors use advanced diagnostic tools to evaluate every aspect of your child’s vision, and our wide selection of glasses and contact lenses ensures they’ll find a solution that fits their needs—and their style.
From preschool to high school, we’re here to support your family’s vision health. Call our Americus or Leesburg office or schedule an appointment to get your child ready for a confident, clear, and successful school year.
FAQs on Back-to-School Eye Exams at Regional Eye Center
1. Why is a pediatric eye exam important for school readiness?
Clear vision is critical for reading, writing, and learning. Pediatric eye exams detect hidden vision problems that school screenings may miss.
2. What’s the difference between a school screening and a full eye exam?
School screenings check for basic visual acuity. A full eye exam evaluates how the eyes focus, work together, and process information—key skills for learning.
3. How early should my child get their eyes checked?
Children should have their first eye exam between 6–12 months, again at age 3, and annually during school years—even if they don’t wear glasses.
4. Can poor vision cause learning or behavioral issues?
Yes. Vision problems can lead to headaches, attention issues, and reading difficulties that may be mistaken for learning disorders. A thorough eye exam can help identify the root cause.