Don’t Wait: Now Is the Time to Book Back-to-School Eye Exams

As the back-to-school season quickly approaches, families everywhere are checking off their to-do lists — backpacks, notebooks, shoes, and clothes. But amid all this preparation, there’s one essential task that often gets forgotten: scheduling your child’s eye exam.

Why Eye Health Should Be a Top Priority This School Year

Vision plays a central role in learning. Whether reading from the board, using a tablet, or completing homework, children rely on their eyesight throughout the school day. With digital learning becoming more prevalent, eye health matters now more than ever. A comprehensive eye exam could be the key to preventing learning struggles, missed milestones, or behavioral issues tied to undiagnosed vision problems.

Unfortunately, vision disorders often go undetected. In fact, 1 in 17 preschoolers and 1 in 4 school-age children have a vision problem that remains untreated — problems that can cause kids to fall behind or struggle academically.

Book Now — Avoid the Rush

Late summer is one of the busiest times of the year for eye doctors. Appointments fill up fast. Booking your child’s exam now ensures they’re seen before the first day of school — giving them the best possible start to the academic year.

The Critical Role of Routine Eye Exams

Eye exams are more than just a quick vision check. They help identify problems early and connect families with treatment options. Regular screenings and exams also help prevent future complications, including potential permanent vision loss. Here’s what every parent should know:

Five Key Steps to Protect Your Child’s Vision:

1. Know the Value: Understand how important vision care is to your child’s development and academic performance.

2. Screen Early and Often: Make sure your child receives regular vision screenings using trusted tools and trained screeners.

3. Refer When Needed: If a screening reveals a concern, follow up promptly with an eye care professional.

4. See an Eye Doctor: Choose an optometrist or ophthalmologist experienced in pediatric eye care for a full evaluation.

5. Follow Through: Stick to treatment plans and share exam results with schools or caregivers as needed.

Watch for These Signs That Your Child Needs an Eye Exam:

• Frequent squinting or head tilting

• Holding books or devices very close

• Complaints of headaches or eye fatigue

• Trouble concentrating on reading or close-up tasks

• Sensitivity to light or frequent tearing

If you notice any of these, don’t wait — book a comprehensive exam as soon as possible. And remember: When in doubt, moms always know best. Trust your instincts. Get a second opinion.

Digital Learning and Eye Strain: A Growing Concern

Screens are everywhere — tablets, laptops, smartboards — and kids spend hours a day using them. This puts many students at risk for Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS), also known as Digital Eye Strain.

Symptoms of CVS Include:

• Blurry or fluctuating vision

• Eye burning or stinging

• Light sensitivity

• Frequent headaches

• Neck or shoulder pain

CVS typically develops after two or more hours of continuous screen time, especially if the screen is too close, too bright, or used without proper eye correction.

Tips to Prevent Digital Eye Strain:

• Follow the 20-20-20 Rule: Every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds.

• Position Screens Properly: Keep the monitor about 20–28 inches away and slightly below eye level.

• Reduce Glare: Use shades, reposition screens, or apply anti-glare filters.

• Encourage Blinking: Remind kids to blink often and use lubricating drops if needed.

• Use Correct Eyewear: Make sure your child’s glasses are up-to-date, especially for screen work.

Despite the buzz around blue light glasses, there’s no scientific evidence they help with eye strain. The American Academy of Ophthalmology does not recommend them.

Choosing the Right Glasses for Kids

If your child needs glasses, the right pair makes all the difference. Look for:

• Durable, child-friendly frames

• Comfortable fit

• UV protection for outdoor play

• Skip the blue light lenses — focus on fit and function

Our Commitment to Your Family’s Eye Health

At Milford Franklin Eye Center, we know how critical this time of year is. That’s why we’re making it easy and convenient to get your child’s eye exam done right — and done in time.

• Seven eye care specialists across three modern locations: Franklin, Milford, and Millis

• Saturday and after-hours appointments available

• State-of-the-art technology to diagnose and manage everything from basic vision issues to Computer Vision Syndrome

• In-house optical shop with skilled opticians, a special children boutique, and a full-service lab

• Special Back-to-School Offer: All new patients — children or adults — receive a free pair of select eyeglasses

From standard eye exams to advanced medical care, we provide full-spectrum services under one roof — no referrals needed.

Don’t delay. Now is the time to schedule your child’s back-to-school eye exam. Let’s make sure your child has clear vision and the confidence to succeed this school year. Call us today or book online — appointments are filling fast!

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