back to school eye exams are important for your child

Make Back to School Eye Exams a Priority

houseEmily Williamson Aug 8, 2025

As families across Alabama prepare for the new school year– buying backpacks, sharpening pencils, and setting schedules, there is one important step that is often overlooked: a child’s annual eye exam.

Making time for an eye exam is one of the best ways to set your child up for success in school, build their confidence, and protect their vision for life.

Meet Our New Pediatric Optometrist!

We are excited to welcome Isabella Simmons, OD, to our team!  Dr. Simmons is accepting new pediatric patients in Gardendale and Vestavia Hills. Her expertise in pediatric eye care ensures that every member of your family receives thorough, compassionate treatment- no matter the age.

Vision and Learning Go Hand in Hand

Up to 80% of what children learn in school is presented visually. From reading and writing to digital lessons and sports, clear vision is essential. Many children with vision problems do not even realize they are struggling, especially if they have never had a comprehensive exam.

Signs of possible vision issues include squinting, covering one eye, frequent headaches, sitting too close to screens, avoiding reading, or having trouble focusing. These symptoms are sometimes mistaken for learning or behavior problems when the true cause is poor vision.

Why a School Screening is Not Enough

School screenings are helpful, but they are not a substitute for a full exam with an optometrist. Screenings mainly test distance vision and can miss farsightedness, astigmatism, eye teaming or tracking problems, focusing issues, and early signs of eye disease.

At TriaVision, we evaluate every aspect of your child’s visual system, not just how clearly they can see the board.

The Best Time is Before School Starts

Late summer and early fall are ideal for an eye exam. If your child needs glasses or vision correction, taking care of it before school begins helps them start the year with confidence and avoid unnecessary setbacks.

Eye Health at Every Age

The American Optometric Association recommends a first exam between 6 and 12 months of age, another between ages 3 and 5, and yearly exams starting at age 6. Regular checkups ensure healthy development and make it easier to address problems early.

At TriaVision, we are proud to care for families across Central Alabama. Whether your child is starting kindergarten or entering high school, we are here to make sure their vision is ready for the year ahead.

Call or text 833-SEE-TRIA to schedule your child’s back to school eye exam with Dr. Simmons today!