Prioritising Children's Eye Health as the New School Year Approaches

As the new school year approaches, it's crucial to prioritise children's eye health to support their academic performance and overall well-being.

 

Good vision is essential for a child's development, learning, and daily activities.

 

From reading the whiteboard to participating in sports, clear sight enables children to fully engage with their environment.

 

However, many vision problems in children go unnoticed because they may not realise their sight is impaired.

 

In Northern Ireland, the Health Service provides free sight tests for children under 16.

 

These comprehensive examinations can detect issues such as short-sightedness (myopia), long-sightedness (hyperopia), astigmatism, and more serious conditions like lazy eye (amblyopia) or squints.

 

Early detection is vital, as many vision problems can be effectively managed or corrected if identified during the early years, preventing long-term impacts on a child's visual development.

 

Recent statistics highlight the importance of regular eye examinations.

 

According to the Northern Ireland Statistics and Research Agency, nearly 460,000 Health Service sight tests were conducted in 2024-25, with four out of every five tests performed on children under 16 or patients aged 60 and over.

 

Despite this, a survey revealed that just under a quarter of children aged 4-16 have never had an eye test, and a further 36% haven't had one in three years.

 

Alarmingly, 63% of parents reported their child experienced problems at school that could be linked to vision issues, such as struggling to see the whiteboard or experiencing headaches.

 

Once a prescription is determined, selecting the right glasses is crucial.

 

Properly fitting frames are not just about appearance; they directly affect comfort and a child's willingness to wear their glasses.

 

Frames that are too large may slip down the nose, causing discomfort and leading the child to look over the lenses instead of through them.

 

Professional fitting ensures that frames sit correctly on the nose bridge, align the pupils with the centre of the lenses, and have appropriately sized sides for a secure, comfortable fit that stays in place during activities.

 

Beyond the frame, the choice of lenses is equally important.

 

Children's lenses should be durable and safe.

 

Lens treatments can significantly enhance visual comfort and protection:

 

Anti-reflective coatings reduce glare and improve visual clarity, particularly important with increased screen time.

 

UV protection shields young eyes from harmful sun rays, reducing the risk of long-term damage.

 

Involving your child in the selection process can also increase their enthusiasm for wearing glasses.

 

By combining professional expertise with your child's preferences, you ensure they have comfortable, effective, and appealing eyewear, setting them on the path to a lifetime of healthy vision.

 

Remember, regular eye tests are a vital part of your child's healthcare routine.

 

As the new school year begins, make eye health a priority to support your child's learning and development.