The school summer holidays are finally here—and while the kids are enjoying a well-earned break, it's the perfect time to tick off important health checks, including your child’s annual eye examination.
At Special Looks Opticians in Stourbridge, we recommend regular eye tests for children of all ages, especially before the new school year begins. Many vision problems don’t show obvious symptoms—but they can have a big impact on learning, confidence and long-term eye health.
👁 Why Children’s Eye Examinations Matter
Your child’s vision plays a huge role in how they learn, read, play and interact with the world, but many children don’t realise they’re having vision problems—because they think what they see is normal.
That’s why regular eye tests are so important, even if they’ve never complained of any issues.
A full children’s eye examination can detect early signs of:
- Myopia (short-sightedness) – Blurred distance vision, which is increasing in children due to screen time and less outdoor play.
- Amblyopia (lazy eye) – Often without obvious symptoms, but if left untreated, it can lead to permanent vision loss in one eye.
- Strabismus (eye turn) – Can cause double vision or suppression of one eye.
- Focusing or tracking problems – Which may affect reading or attention in school.
Many of these conditions are easier to treat when caught early—which is why we recommend eye tests at least once a year, starting from around age 4 (or sooner if there are concerns).
🕶 Don’t Forget Sunglasses: Kids’ Eyes Need UV Protection Too
Summer brings more time outside—which is great for eye development—but it also means increased UV exposure. Children’s eyes are more sensitive to sunlight, and too much UV exposure can increase the risk of eye conditions later in life, including cataracts and retinal damage.
Make sure your child wears quality sunglasses that:
- Have 100% UVA and UVB protection
- Fit properly and comfortably
- Meet CE marking standards or carry a BS EN 1836:2005 label
We stock a lovely range of children’s sunglasses at Special Looks Opticians—so your child can stay protected and look stylish this summer.
🏫 Prepare for Back to School with Clear Vision
Many children struggle in school due to undiagnosed vision problems—but it’s often mistaken for inattention, clumsiness or disinterest.
A back-to-school eye test can give them the best possible start to the new term. If your child does need glasses, we’ll help you choose from our wide selection of fun, durable and affordable children’s frames.
👓 Why Choose Special Looks Opticians?
At Special Looks, we’re passionate about paediatric eye care. Our friendly team is experienced in working with children of all ages, including those who may be a little nervous about their first eye test. We make the process relaxed, engaging, and fun.
We also offer early detection and advice on myopia management, which can help slow down the progression of short-sightedness in children using lifestyle guidance and special lenses.
📅 Book Their Eye Test This Summer—It’s Free on the NHS!
Children under 16 (or under 19 and in full-time education) are entitled to free NHS eye examinations—and may also qualify for an NHS optical voucher to help cover the cost of glasses.
There’s no better time to book than the summer holidays—when you won’t need to take them out of school.
👁 Book Your Child’s Eye Test Today
📍 Special Looks Opticians
84a Pedmore Road, Lye, Stourbridge, DY9 8DA
📞 01384 340101
🌐 www.speciallooksopticians.co.uk
Let us help your child step into the new school year with clear, healthy vision.
