It’s hard to believe it can happen so fast. Heck, summer was just arriving here the other day, right? However, school is indeed back in session, and there's never a better time to make sure your child's vision is ready for the year to come.

Whether they're starting kindergarten or the first year of high school, good vision can be the class difference-maker. Seeing the whiteboard, reading chapter books (or typing on a laptop), clear vision, and comfortable glasses help students focus, participate, and feel their best.

Below is our expertly crafted parent, caregiver, and student checklist:

Step 1: Schedule That Vision Exam

Kids' eyes may change faster than you think, sometimes without a noticeable sign. Catching any alteration in their prescription before school rolls around in full force, catching issues such as eye strain or dry eye, and preparing them for success can be accomplished with a swift appointment.

Tip: Oregon requires vision screenings of school-entry students. We go a step further with one-to-one eye exams for all ages.

Step 2: Choose Frames That Last

From gym to recess, durability and comfort are as crucial as being good-looking.

Flexible materials like TR-90 and acetate can take a beating (and bounce back).

Silicone nose pieces eliminate slipping when children are active with school sports.

Kid-friendly, hip shapes and colors put kids in the self-assured, grown-up zone.

Our staff at Eyes on Broadway is ready to help find that perfect mix of functionality, fit, and fun.

Step 3: Protect Their Eyes from Screens

Chromebooks. Tablets. Google Docs assignments.

Screen time is just one facet of learning these days, so blue light protection and smart habits are a must. Find out about blue light-filtering lenses or minimize eye strain with non-distorting color and clarity filters.

Home Tip: Educate your child on the 20-20-20 rule — look 20 feet away every 20 minutes for 20 seconds. Their eyes will appreciate it.

Step 4: Sunglasses Aren't Just a Summer Thing

Even with fall on the horizon, UV rays remain potent in Portland, particularly on morning walks or after-school runs. Children's eyes are more sensitive to UV damage than adults', so a set of UV400-rated shades is an intelligent upgrade.

Fix-it Fast & Pro Tips

Anti-fog trick: A small drop of dish soap massaged into lenses, then wiped away, prevents glasses from fogging up, especially in fall rains.

Cleaning tissues and spray-safe for lenses: Store them in backpacks for quick wipe-downs between periods.

Label everything: Lost glasses are no joke.

We enjoy seeing families at this time of year. Make your back-to-school appointment early to receive the most popular frame choices, skip the last-minute rush, and get vision checked off of your to-do list.

Thank you for taking the time to read this article! To delve deeper, we invite you to browse our extensive collection of frames. Additionally, you're welcome to explore our comprehensive list of services, and should you require an eye exam, feel free to schedule an appointment with us.