When Should a Child Have Their First Eye Exam?

A child’s sight is one of the most important senses they use to discover and learn about the world. For this reason, it’s vital to maintain healthy eyes for their vision development. One way to do that is to schedule your child’s first eye exam. As a parent, you may not know when to do that.
 

A baby should have their first eye exam between 6 and 12 months. A preschool-aged child should have their first eye exam between 3 and 5 years to monitor vision and detect early signs of vision problems.
 

Importance of Early Eye Exams in Children

Early vision screening with eye exams is key for detecting potential issues impacting your child’s learning and daily life. Children often can’t tell if they have a vision problem, assuming that everyone sees as they do. That’s why it’s up to parents and eyecare professionals to catch early signs and make sure children receive the care they need for healthy, comfortable vision.
 

Recommended Age for a Baby & Child’s First Eye Exam

The American Optometric Association recommends that infants have their first comprehensive eye exam between 6 and 12 months. After that, they recommend the first comprehensive eye exam for preschool children between 3 and 5 years.
 

School-aged children should have annual eye exams. Early and regular exams help assess normal vision development and check for vision conditions that can impact vision in the long term.
 

What to Expect During a Children’s Eye Exam

An eye exam for young children is straightforward, non-invasive, and can be a fun experience. Children’s eye exams include testing visual acuity, eye movement, alignment, and a thorough eye health evaluation. Children’s eye exams are designed to be comfortable and engaging to put children who may be nervous or anxious at ease.
 

Here are some tips to prepare your child for their first eye exam:

  • Explain the process: Speak to your child about what will happen during the exam to calm their worries.
  • Play pretend: Role-playing can be a fun way to familiarize your child with the examination process.
  • Bring comfort items: A favorite toy or blanket can make the experience less intimidating for your child.
  • Choose the right time: Schedule the exam when your child is well-rested, fed, and comfortable for a smooth and cooperative experience.
 

Eye Conditions Detected in a Children’s Eye Exam

Children’s eye exams help maintain your child’s overall eye health, as they can help detect potential issues that may impact their vision and everyday activities. Here are some common eye conditions an eye doctor can diagnose during a children’s eye exam:

  • Amblyopia: Or lazy eye, is a common eye condition in children that results in poor vision in one eye. It occurs when there’s an impairment in the brain-eye connection. Treatment often includes corrective eyewear, eye patches, or vision therapy.
  • Strabismus: Or crossed eyes, is the misalignment of the eyes that causes one eye to deviate. It occurs due to poor eye muscle control. Treatment often includes glasses, therapy, or surgery to align the eyes.
  • Refractive errors: Nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism are refractive errors that cause blurry vision at varying distances. Treatment is vision correction with glasses or contact lenses. 
 

Signs That May Indicate a Child Needs an Eye Exam

While children may have regular vision screenings, some signs may indicate that a comprehensive eye exam is needed. Parents can watch for the following signs of a vision problem in their child:

  • Frequent eye rubbing
  • Difficulty focusing or following objects
  • Delayed motor development
  • Excessive tearing
  • Tilting the head
  • Light sensitivity
  • Redness
  • Encrusted eyelids
  • Consistently sitting too close to the TV
  • Holding books too close
  • Complaints of headaches or eye pain
  • Dizziness or nausea
 

Identifying these signs can prompt early intervention and treatment to preserve their vision.
 

The Impact of Digital Devices on Children’s Eyesight

With increased screen time, digital eye strain is a growing concern among parents of young children. Parents play a vital role in maintaining their children’s eye health by fostering good screen habits and encouraging outdoor play. Awareness and proactive care can prevent minor issues from becoming major problems in children.
 

Parents can take the following measures to help reduce the impact of prolonged screen usage among children:

  • Encourage regular breaks using the 20-20-20 rule (every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break to look at something 20 feet away).
  • Make sure your child is in a well-lit area when using digital devices.
  • Encourage media-free time every day.
  • Schedule regular eye exams for early diagnosis and treatment of vision issues.
 

Eye Exam for Healthy Eyes & Vision

Your child’s vision is foundational to their growth and success. By monitoring your child’s eye health and being proactive with healthy vision habits, you can make sure they have healthy vision development to start in life.
 

If your child hasn’t had a recent eye exam or you have concerns about their vision, book an appointment with Tree City EyeCare. Our eye doctors are ready to work with them toward healthy eyes and bright futures!

Quick Links
Eye Care Services

All Eye
Care Services

Learn More
Contact Us

Keep
In Touch

Contact Us