1 in 5 kids have a vision problem: is your child ready for the demands of a school day?
Did you know that 1 in 5 children have an undiagnosed vision eye condition?
Research shows that early vision screening can change the outcomes for your child’s ability to see clearly. Simple conditions can lead to permanent impairment and years of avoidable challenges in the classroom. A simple eye check before you send your dhild off to school this month is a practical, quick, easy AND proven way to support children’s development.
Why early screening matters
Undiagnosed vision conditions can significantly affect children’s learning, development and wellbeing.
Flinders University research (2021–2023) found that 17% of Year 3 children failed a vision screening, most commonly due to an undiagnosed vision problem. Conditions such as lazy eye, can lead to irreversible vision loss if not treated early.
International experts in vision and child development have found that astigmatism and abnormal motor function in 2 year olds could be associated with poorer vision when they turn 4. Those children may benefit from a comprehensive eye test so they get the best start to life, particularly with reading and learning at school.
If your child is struggling with reading, concentration, coordination, or even exhibiting behaviour associated with neuro-developmental conditions like ADHD or Autism Spectrum Disorder, their eyes might hold a clue that a standard vision test doesn’t reveal.
Perhaps your child gets frequent headaches, loses their place while reading, finds close-up work exhausting, or struggles to maintain eye contact. These often are not just ” difficulties” they can be symptoms of visual processing issues affecting your child’s behaviour.
With South Australia currently facing calls from Optometry Australia and health advocates to improve preschool vision screening (as recently reported by the ABC), the responsibility for eye health currently rests with parents.
Why book an eye test this month?
• Avoid the "Struggle"
Undiagnosed vision issues are a leading cause of classroom fatigue and falling behind in reading
• Screen Time Stress
Ensure your child’s eyes are ready for the digital demands of the classroom
• Catch it Early
Many conditions are much easier to correct when caught early
We have a specialised approach to children’s vision, especially those with learning difficulties or neurodevelopmental differences. We don’t just check for clear sight; we investigate how your child’s eyes and brain work together, identifying visual challenges that can hinder their progress.
Clear vision is a fundamental aspect of your child's ability to reach their full potential. Don't wait for your child to tell you they can't see, they may already be struggling.
Ensure your child is set up for success in 2026 by booking a comprehensive eye examination with our friendly optometry team today.
