The Vision Checklist Every Parent Should Review Before Back-to-School

Back-to-school season is filled with to-do lists: supplies to buy, clothes to try on, and forms to fill out. But there’s one important thing many parents overlook—a child’s vision.

Vision is a foundational part of learning. If your child can’t see clearly, track across a page, or focus for extended periods, school can become frustrating quickly.

Here’s a simple checklist to help you make sure your child’s eyes are ready to succeed this school year.

Back-to-School Vision Checklist for Parents

Ask yourself these questions:

1. Does your child complain of headaches, eye strain, or tired eyes after school or screen time? Discomfort after visual tasks may indicate focusing or eye teaming issues.

2. Do they avoid reading, writing, or homework? Kids with undiagnosed vision issues often avoid what’s hardest for them—and it’s not because they’re lazy.

3. Do they skip lines, lose their place, or use their finger when reading? These are signs of poor tracking or trouble coordinating eye movements.

4. Is their handwriting messy or inconsistent ? Visual-motor integration plays a big role in handwriting, spacing, and neatness.

5. Do they hold books or devices very close to their face? This could be a sign of nearsightedness or difficulty focusing.

6. Do they have difficulty copying from the board or shifting focus between near and far? Poor visual flexibility can cause delays and frustration in class.

7. Do they seem clumsy or uncoordinated in sports or gym class? Vision helps guide movement, depth perception, and body awareness.

8. Have they had a full developmental eye exam in the last year? Even if they passed a school screening or saw an eye doctor for glasses, they may not have been evaluated for deeper issues like eye teaming, tracking, and visual processing.

What Should You Do If You Notice Any of These Signs?

Start by scheduling a comprehensive developmental vision exam—not just a basic vision screening. This type of exam checks how your child’s eyes work together, how they track, and how the brain processes what they see.

If a problem is found, don’t worry—vision therapy and other supports can make a big difference. Once their vision is working as it should, children often begin to read more comfortably, focus longer, and feel more confident in school.

Before stocking up on folders and pencils, take a moment to ensure your child’s visual system is ready for the school year ahead. It might be the most important school supply you give them.