Children's Annual Eye Exam- it all begins with your child's eyes!

Annual eye exams are essential for children because clear vision plays a vital role in their learning, development, and overall well-being, including their personalities! 

Children grow and develop rapidly, and their vision can change just as quickly, making regular eye exams especially important during these formative years. With childhood nearsightedness (myopia) on the rise, increased screen time and prolonged near work—including the use of technology in schools—make it especially important to monitor children’s vision and encourage healthy visual habits.
 

At what age should your child be completing a full eye exam?

The American Optometric Association recommends eye exams at: 6 months old, 3 years old, 5 years old, and then every year after (annually).

Why are children's eye exams so important at an early age?

Early detection is critical because children have a limited period of visual development, often referred to as the critical period, during which the brain learns to process visual information. Conditions such as amblyopia (lazy eye) are generally easier to treat when identified early; once this critical period has passed, improving vision can become significantly more difficult, and some vision loss may be permanent.
 

Does my child need Dilation (eye drops during their eye exam)? YES!

Dilation is also an important part of many children’s comprehensive eye exams. Unlike adults, children can focus their eyes so strongly that it may mask underlying vision problems, such as farsightedness. Dilating drops temporarily relax the focusing system, allowing the eye doctor to obtain a more accurate prescription and thoroughly examine the internal structures of the eyes for signs of eye disease or developmental concerns.

Please plan accordingly, as the drops do cause blurry vision only up-close (they do not blur distance vision) for about 4-6 hours, and some light sensitivity due to causing the pupil to stay enlarged. 

Don't forget about your child's Eyes!

Many vision problems can go unnoticed because children may not realize their vision is abnormal (Kids don't know what normal is- Blurry vision may be their normal, lets help them make their world clear!). 

Regular comprehensive eye exams help detect and address these issues early, supporting academic success, healthy visual development, and confidence both in and out of the classroom. 
 

Even if your child isn’t experiencing symptoms, an annual eye exam is an important part of their overall health care!