An Exam Needing No Study

Got a student doing exams, like we do in our house right now?

Here's one they can do with no study required........simply an appointment.......with an Optometrist.


Up to 80% of a student's learning is visual - poor vision can be a barrier to learning - imagine not being able to read what's on the whiteboard or in the text book, and the headaches that come on after spending hours using a computer - study is hard enough without adding in these factors. Or squinting. Or blurry vision.


“Having frequent eye tests will ensure that students are able to perform at their best and reach their full potential whether they’re at home or in the classroom,” said Grant Fisher, National Eyecare Director at Budget Eyewear.

Here are some tips Grant has put together to help keep those eyes healthy:

1. Always study in a well lit room. Too much or too little light can cause you to squint or strain. So, avoid working in darkness in front of a bright computer screen, and always read and write with a light positioned behind you.

2. Monitor your visuals. Be aware of how long you are spending on one task, especially if you are working on the computer or reading. Long term exposure to the computer could cause dry eyes from reduced blinking and even induce myopia (short-sightedness) in some students.

3. Give your eyes a break. Relax your eyes by taking a few seconds to focus on an object in your line of vision beyond your computer or text book.

4. Eat for your eyes. Snack on tasty, nutritious treats such as apricots, oranges, strawberries, carrots, as well as nuts and seeds such as almonds, peanuts and pumpkin seeds. Eating food that is rich in vitamins A, C, E, selenium and zinc have been shown to play an important role in maintaining eye health.

5. Watch out for regular headaches, frequently sore, tired or bloodshot eyes. These are not just symptoms of working too hard – more than likely your eyes are trying to tell you something! If you’re experiencing these symptoms it’s worthwhile booking an appointment to see your local optometrist.

6. Check your child’s eyes regularly. Medicare covers an eye test every two years and in some instances more frequently so take the time to check out your eye health.

Eye exams are a part of life in our house. Ray & I have had ours tested in the last 2 years (& we both have very early glaucoma); I have glasses I am meant to wear for reading; and Zac has glasses for reading. My eyes are feeling weary lately and I am noticing some difficulty in seeing words clearly, so I must unbury (is there such a word?) my specs from my handbag and put them on my face! And I must organise to have Liam and Megan's eyes tested - I am not expecting any problems with their vision, but it's wise to get it done anyway.

With Medicare covering the cost of an eye exam every 2 years, it makes sense to get the family tested. There are HEAPS of frames available - from conservative to glasses that make a statement (which are great for those teens who love to be an individual). Budget Eyewear can also cater for the younger kids - they recommend glasses fitted with‘active lens’; the lens are super strong, thin, lightweight, scratch proof and UV resistant. So they can handle lots of child's play!

Do any of your kids wear glasses? When did you last have your own eyes tested? Can you get an "A" in your eye test?

Karen xx

I was approached to write this post and have received no compensation for it. Because sometimes I like to do things like that!