Your teen’s vision impacts nearly every aspect of their education. From reading the whiteboard to using digital devices for homework, sharp eyesight supports focus, comprehension, and confidence. Even mild refractive errors — such as myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness), or astigmatism — can cause blurred vision, eye strain, and headaches, leading to decreased performance in school.
At Shaughnessy Optometry, we understand that 80% of learning is visual. That’s why we recommend annual pediatric eye exams for teens, even if they seem to see well. A vision screening at school may miss early signs of eye problems like eye muscle imbalances, poor depth perception, or subtle visual impairment — issues that can interfere with reading, sports, and concentration.
Signs Your Teen May Have a Vision Problem
Many teens may not realize they have a vision issue because they’ve adapted to it over time. Parents should watch for:
- Squinting to see clearly at a distance
- Complaints of eye strain or headaches after reading or using screens
- Holding books or devices closer than 20 feet from their face
- Avoiding sports or activities that require good depth perception
- Sensitivity to bright light (light sensitivity)
- Frequent eye rubbing or signs of dry eyes
If your teen shows any of these symptoms, it’s time for a comprehensive eye exam.
Glasses, Contact Lenses, and Myopia Management for Teens
For many teens, wearing glasses or contact lenses can make a world of difference in the classroom and beyond. Our Vancouver clinic offers a wide selection of stylish spectacles for myopia and contact lenses tailored for teens’ active lifestyles.
If your teen has myopia, we can also discuss myopia management treatments that may help slow its progression, including ortho-k lenses and soft contact lenses designed for myopia control. These proactive steps can help protect your teen’s central vision and reduce their higher risk of serious eye conditions later in life.
Advanced Eye Exams for Early Detection
At Shaughnessy Optometry, our comprehensive eye exams go beyond basic vision screening to identify potential eye conditions before they cause noticeable symptoms. Using advanced diagnostic tools, we assess the front of the retina, check eye movements and eye muscle coordination, and measure depth perception to ensure your teen’s visual system is performing at its best.
We also test for early signs of dry eyes, light sensitivity, and other visual issues that can affect comfort and concentration during the school day. Detecting these problems early allows us to provide timely treatment — whether that’s glasses or contact lenses, targeted vision therapy, or medical care.
Lens Technology That Supports Learning
The right lenses can make a big difference in how your teen sees and feels throughout the day. We offer:
- High-index lenses — lighter and thinner for strong prescriptions.
- Anti-reflective coatings — reduce glare from classroom lights and digital screens to minimize eye strain.
- Blue-light filtering lenses — protect central vision and reduce fatigue from extended screen time.
- Photochromic lenses — automatically adjust to lighting changes for better outdoor comfort and reduced light sensitivity.
These options not only improve clarity but also make wearing glasses more comfortable during long school days.
Why Vancouver Families Trust Shaughnessy Optometry
Our team has years of experience helping teens maintain clear, comfortable vision for school, sports, and daily life. We combine thorough vision tests with personalized recommendations for eyewear, myopia management, or other treatments.
Whether your teen needs spectacles for myopia, contact lenses for sports, or advanced care for an eye problem, we make sure they leave confident and ready for the school year.
Book Your Teen’s Back-to-School Eye Exam in Vancouver
Don’t let undetected vision problems hold your teen back. Schedule their comprehensive eye exam at Shaughnessy Optometry.
Clear vision is one of the most valuable tools you can give your teen for academic success and lifelong eye health.