Why Annual Eye Exams Matter for School Success
Vision and Learning: What’s the Connection?
About 80% of classroom learning is visual. From reading the whiteboard to tracking words in a book, your child’s ability to see clearly impacts everything from academic performance to confidence. A routine pediatric eye exam can catch common issues like nearsightedness, farsightedness, or focusing problems—often before your child realizes something’s wrong.
Signs Your Child May Be Struggling with Vision
Kids don’t always know how to describe vision problems. Watch for clues like:
- Squinting or sitting too close to screens
- Complaints about headaches or eye strain
- Skipping lines while reading
- Trouble concentrating or unexplained frustration in school
My Child Just Had a School Eye Exam—Isn’t That Enough?
School Screenings vs. Comprehensive Eye Exams
While school vision screenings are helpful, they’re not enough. These quick tests often only check distance vision and miss more subtle issues like eye coordination, tracking, or focusing.
What Screenings Often Miss
Conditions like amblyopia (lazy eye), strabismus (eye turn), or convergence insufficiency require specialized testing that only a pediatric optometrist can provide. At Eye Care Hawaii, we go beyond the basics with technology and techniques designed specifically for kids.
What to Expect During a Pediatric Eye Exam
Age-Based Testing & What It Reveals
At Eye Care Hawaii, pediatric eye exams are customized by age. Infants, toddlers, and school-aged children receive assessments for visual acuity, eye alignment, depth perception, color vision, and more. We look at how the eyes work together and how visual skills are developing in relation to your child’s age and learning needs.
Advanced Tools for Accurate Results
We use cutting-edge diagnostic equipment, including digital retinal imaging and topography, to spot concerns early and accurately. These tools help ensure your child receives the best care possible—with minimal discomfort and maximum clarity.
Making Eye Exams Kid-Friendly and Easy
How to Help Your Child Feel Prepared
Let your child know what to expect in a relaxed, positive way. Explain that an eye exam is like a game where they look at pictures and read letters. Bring their glasses (if they wear any), and let them ask questions during the visit. Our caring team in both Hilo and Ocean View is trained to make exams fun and comfortable for kids.
Booking Local Eye Exams in Hilo & Ocean View
Eye Care & Eye Exams in Hilo & Ocean View makes it easy for families across the Big Island to schedule pediatric eye exams. With convenient locations in Hilo (34 W Kawailani St) and Ocean View (inside Ka‘ū Wellness), plus same-day glasses for most prescriptions, we’re here to help your child start the school year with clear vision and confidence.
📍 Book your child’s back-to-school eye test today:
Call us at 808-935-8887
Or schedule online here