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As summer winds down and families prepare for the school year, there’s one important checklist item that often gets overlooked: your child’s eye exam. Vision plays a major role in learning, reading, and social development—yet many school-age kids return to the classroom with undiagnosed vision problems.
To help parents prepare, Dr. Chard Carlson, leading pediatric optometrist at The Look Eye Care Center in Mount Pleasant, SC, answers your top questions about back-to-school eye care and why so many families in the Charleston area trust him year after year.
Q: Why is a back-to-school eye exam so important for kids?
A: About 80% of what children learn in school is visual. From reading books to seeing the whiteboard, clear vision is critical to academic success. A back-to-school eye exam ensures your child’s vision is sharp and that their eyes are working together properly.
Even if your child passed a school vision screening, it’s not a substitute for a comprehensive exam with an eye doctor for kids in Mount Pleasant. Screenings often miss common issues like eye teaming problems, focusing difficulties, and subtle prescription needs.
Q: What age should kids start getting regular eye exams?
A: The American Optometric Association recommends that children have their first full eye exam between 6 and 12 months old, again at age 3, and then every year once they start school.
If you're searching for pediatric eye exams near Charleston or kids eye doctor in Mount Pleasant, Dr. Carlson is known for his gentle, kid-friendly approach. He tailors exams to each child’s age and developmental level, making it a comfortable and stress-free experience.
Q: What are signs my child might have a vision problem?
A: Some children don’t know how to describe what they’re seeing (or not seeing), so it’s important to watch for these signs:
- Squinting or sitting too close to the screen
- Covering one eye or tilting their head
- Frequent headaches or eye rubbing
- Difficulty reading or concentrating
- Trouble catching or hitting balls during sports
- Declining grades despite good effort
If your child is showing any of these symptoms, it’s time to schedule a children’s vision exam in Mount Pleasant SC at The Look Eye Care Center.
Q: What makes The Look Eye Care Center different for kids’ vision care?
A: Families in Mount Pleasant, Charleston, Daniel Island, and nearby communities return to The Look Eye Care Center year after year because:
✅ Dr. Chard Carlson specializes in pediatric eye care
✅ The environment is welcoming and stress-free for children
✅ Exams are thorough, not rushed, and tailored to school needs
✅ Parents receive clear explanations and expert guidance
✅ There’s a wide selection of kid-friendly glasses and contact lenses
✅ The team truly cares and treats every child like family
When parents search for the best eye doctor for kids in Charleston, they consistently find Dr. Carlson at the top of the list.
Q: What happens during a pediatric eye exam at The Look Eye Care Center?
A: A typical back-to-school eye exam includes:
- Vision testing (near and distance)
- Eye coordination and tracking checks
- Depth perception and color vision screening
- Prescription testing for glasses or contact lenses
- Eye health evaluation (including for early signs of conditions like amblyopia or strabismus)
Everything is done with gentle equipment and explained in a way kids understand. If your child does need glasses or contacts, the staff will guide you through the best options for school and play.
Q: Should my child wear contact lenses for school?
A: It depends on your child’s age, responsibility level, and personal preference. Many older kids and teens enjoy the freedom and confidence that comes with contact lenses, especially if they play sports or dislike wearing glasses.
Dr. Carlson provides custom contact lens fittings for kids in Charleston SC, including options for astigmatism, myopia management, and daily disposables. If contacts are a good fit, you’ll receive all the support you need to make it a safe and smooth transition.
Q: Do you accept insurance for back-to-school eye exams?
A: Yes! The Look Eye Care Center accepts most major vision insurance plans. The team is happy to verify your coverage and explain any costs before your visit. You can also use HSA/FSA funds for exams, glasses, or contacts.
Booking is easy—just call or use the online scheduling system.
Q: When is the best time to schedule before school starts?
A: Late summer is the busiest time of year for pediatric eye exams, so we recommend booking early! Many families in Shem Creek, I’On, Old Village, and Park West schedule July and August appointments to beat the back-to-school rush.
Even if school has already started, it’s not too late. An eye exam at any point in the school year can make a big difference in your child’s focus and performance.
Q: How do I book an appointment with Dr. Carlson?
A: Scheduling your child’s back-to-school eye exam is quick and easy:
📍 Visit us at The Look Eye Care Center, centrally located in Mount Pleasant, SC
🌐 Or book online at www.thelookeyecare.com
Final Thoughts
Backpacks, pencils, and notebooks are important—but clear vision is essential for school success. Don’t let undiagnosed vision issues hold your child back this year. Join the many Charleston-area families who trust Dr. Chard Carlson and The Look Eye Care Center to help their children see, learn, and thrive.
Book your back-to-school vision checkup today—and give your child the clarity they deserve.
