September Newsletter: Setting Kids Up for Clear, Comfortable Vision

As the new school year begins, parents are checking supply lists, packing backpacks, and helping kids prepare for learning. But one essential part of a successful school year often gets overlooked—your child’s vision.

Good eyesight is key to reading, learning, sports, and even enjoying art or screen time. At University Children’s Eye Center, our pediatric eye care specialists are here to help families make sure kids start the year with clear, comfortable vision.

Here are three important ways to set your child up for success this school year:

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Is It Time for an Eye Exam?

Back-to-school season is the perfect time to schedule your child’s eye exam. If your child already wears glasses or contact lenses and hasn’t been seen in the past year, it’s time to check in.

Even if your child doesn’t wear glasses, watch for these signs of possible vision issues:

• Squinting when watching TV or reading

• Headaches after school

• Moving closer to objects or screens to see clearly

• Teacher feedback about difficulty seeing in class

If you notice any of these, an eye exam can make all the difference. At UCEC, we offer convenient after-school, evening, and even Saturday appointments to fit busy family schedules.

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Preventing Dry Eyes in Cooler Weather

We're still in the heat of summer, but autumn is just around the corner! As the weather shifts into fall and winter, kids (and adults!) often notice more dryness in their eyes. This happens naturally when the air gets colder and less humid, and indoor heating makes the problem worse.

Contact lens wearers, in particular, may feel dryness more often. Symptoms can include:

• Gritty or burning sensations

• More frequent tearing, especially outdoors in the wind

• General discomfort or eye fatigue

  
  

Simple steps can help, like using over-the-counter artificial tears or running a humidifier at home. But if dryness doesn’t improve—or if you notice redness, discharge, or worsening irritation—it’s important to reach out to us. Our specialists can help determine whether it’s just dryness or something that requires treatment.

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Is Your Child Ready for Contact Lenses?

For some kids, back to school means a fresh start—including the idea of contact lenses. Contacts can be a great option for active kids or those who feel self-conscious in glasses. But how do you know if your child is ready?

Here are a few key questions to ask:

• Age: At UCEC, we typically fit children ages 11 and up.

• Responsibility: Is your child mature enough to handle the daily care routine?

• Comfort level: Can your child comfortably touch their eyes and handle the lenses themselves?

  
  

If the answer is “yes,” contact lenses might be a good fit. If not, glasses are still an excellent option until they’re ready.

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A Clear Start to the School Year

Back-to-school season is all about setting kids up for success—and that includes their vision. Whether it’s making sure they’re up to date on eye exams, preventing dryness in cooler weather, or exploring contact lenses, the team at University Children’s Eye Center is here to help every step of the way.

Give your child the gift of clear, comfortable vision this school year. Schedule an appointment with UCEC today!