“It’s the most wonderful time of the year!” By now, most people are starting to realize that summer vacation is quickly coming to an end, and it is time to get ready to go “Back to School.” As parents and caregivers start checking off items on school supply lists, it is crucial to include children’s health checks, especially vision and hearing exams.
Sharp vision and clear hearing are essential for learning. A UCLA study found that 80% of classroom learning is visual, and hearing is just as critical, especially when it comes to understanding directions, participating in discussions, and developing strong literacy skills. Children may not recognize or report when something is wrong with either of these senses. Research has shown that 1 in 4 school-age children experience undetected impaired vision, and approximately 15% of school-aged children experience some degree of hearing loss in one or both ears. Unfortunately, when something is wrong and goes undetected, issues with a child’s vision or hearing can lead to difficulty in the classroom, poor focus and attention, and even behavioral challenges.
Be sure to schedule an eye exam and a hearing screening for your child before the school year starts. This simple task can help catch potential problems early, setting your child up for a successful and positive start to the year. Healthy eyes and ears aid every child to see, hear, and build a bright and successful school experience.
