School may be out, but your child’s eye health is always in session. At The Eye Institute, we know how crucial clear vision is to your child’s growth, confidence, and success—in and out of the classroom. That’s why we encourage families to take advantage of summer break and schedule a comprehensive pediatric eye exam before the busy school year begins.
Why Early Eye Care Matters
Childhood is a critical time for eye development. Many common vision problems—like nearsightedness, farsightedness, and lazy eye—can be corrected effectively if detected early. Left undiagnosed, these issues may interfere with reading, writing, sports, and classroom participation.
Early signs of vision problems include:
- Squinting or closing one eye to see
- Complaints of frequent headaches
- Difficulty focusing on reading or screens
- Avoiding near tasks like homework
- Excessive blinking or eye rubbing
Scheduling a back-to-school eye exam can prevent unnecessary struggles and ensure your child starts the year with the clear vision they need to succeed.
How Vision Problems Impact Learning
More than 80% of learning in school is visual. When children struggle to see clearly, their performance often suffers. Poor vision can lead to:
- Lower test scores
- Trouble following along in class
- Behavioral issues stemming from frustration
- Decreased confidence and self-esteem
That’s why The Eye Institute offers pediatric vision care focused on identifying and resolving issues before they become barriers to success.
Why Summer Is the Best Time for an Eye Exam
Summer offers a perfect window for pediatric eye exams:
- No school schedule conflicts
- Ample time to fit in follow-ups or glasses orders
- A proactive start before fall activities and learning begin
Plus, if your child plays sports or spends time outdoors, good vision is essential for safety, coordination, and enjoyment.
What’s Included in a Child’s Eye Exam at The Eye Institute?
At The Eye Institute, our pediatric eye exams go beyond simple vision tests. We use advanced diagnostic tools to provide a complete picture of your child’s eye health:
- Meibography: Examines tear-producing glands to identify early signs of dry eye.
- Optos Retinal Imaging: Captures high-resolution images without dilation to detect retinal and optic nerve issues.
- Tonometry: Measures eye pressure to screen for childhood glaucoma.
- Keratometry: Measures the curvature of the eye to detect astigmatism or fit contact lenses accurately.
- Slit Lamp Exam: Allows detailed inspection of the cornea, lens, and anterior eye structures.
These painless, non-invasive tests are tailored for kids and help detect issues early—before symptoms arise.
These painless, non-invasive tests are tailored for kids and help detect issues early—before symptoms arise.
Avoid Long-Term Vision Issues with Preventive Care
Many vision conditions develop without obvious symptoms. A routine pediatric eye exam can detect:
- Amblyopia (lazy eye)
- Strabismus (crossed eyes)
- Refractive errors (nearsightedness, farsightedness, astigmatism)
Dr. Kendra Hatfield of The Eye Institute @ Tradewinds emphasizes, “Early detection is key. With proper diagnosis and treatment, children have a much better chance at both academic success and long-term eye health.”
Your Partner in Year-Round Vision Care
We understand the demands of parenting—and we’re here to help. The Eye Institute offers:
- Flexible appointment scheduling
- Multiple convenient locations
- Insurance and payment plan support
- Kid-friendly exam environments
Whether it’s a back-to-school exam or a mid-year check-up, our team ensures your child receives the care and attention they need for clear, healthy vision all year long.
Schedule Your Child’s Eye Exam Today
Don’t wait until the school bell rings. Make summer a time for clearer vision, stronger focus, and better learning outcomes.
📍 Serving families in Raleigh, North Raleigh, Wake Forest and Knightdale
