If you’re a parent, you may wonder whether school vision screenings or a quick check with the pediatrician are enough to ensure your child sees clearly. While screenings can detect some vision problems, they are limited in scope and cannot replace a comprehensive eye exam performed by an optometrist.
At Lemoncelli Eyecare, we offer kids’ eye exams in Nashville for patients ages five and up. These exams detect hidden concerns and support healthy vision development. This blog will help you understand why full eye exams are important and how they can support your child’s learning and development.
What is a vision screening?
Vision screenings are often quick checks to see if a child can read letters on an eye chart and are typically performed by a school nurse or pediatrician. While these screenings can catch obvious vision problems, they miss up to 75% of children with eye issues.¹
Even when a problem is identified, 61% of children never visit a doctor or receive the care they need. These limitations mean many vision conditions can go undetected without a full comprehensive eye exam.
Specifically, school screenings:
- Usually don’t assess near vision or eye coordination.
- Cannot detect subtle refractive errors or early eye disease.
- Don’t evaluate eye health beyond basic vision clarity.
Why a comprehensive eye exam matters
A comprehensive eye exam goes far beyond a school vision screening. It evaluates not just how clearly your child sees but also the overall health of their eyes, eye movement, and focusing ability. These exams often include:
- An Optomap retinal exam to check the retina for early signs of disease or damage.
- Assessments for eyeglasses or contact lenses if needed.
- Testing of depth perception, peripheral vision, and eye coordination.
These detailed evaluations allow our skilled eye doctor in Nashville to catch problems early, provide appropriate treatment, and monitor eye development as your child grows.
How often should children have eye exams?
School-aged children should see an eye doctor at least once a year. Early detection of vision problems helps prevent learning difficulties, eye strain, and long-term complications. Annual exams are even more critical if your child:
- Has trouble reading or focusing on schoolwork
- Complains of headaches or eye discomfort
- Has a family history of vision problems
Signs your child may need glasses
Even if a child passes a vision screening, they may still have subtle issues that can affect learning and comfort. Signs that your child may benefit from eyeglasses or contact lenses include:
- Squinting or tilting the head to see clearly
- Covering one eye or closing an eye while reading
- Complaints of blurry vision at near or far distances
- Frequent rubbing of the eyes or fatigue after schoolwork
Protect your child’s vision
Regular children’s eye exams at Lemoncelli Eyecare give your child the best chance to see clearly, stay comfortable, and fully enjoy school, sports, and play. These exams catch vision problems early, determine if eyeglasses or contact lenses are needed, and provide personalized guidance for healthy eye habits.
Schedule your child’s eye exam today to ensure their eyes are healthy and ready for learning and growing.
References: