When to Get Your Child's First Eye Examination

I am often asked by parents when they should have their child’s eyes examined. First, it is important to understand the difference between a vision screening in school or from a pediatrician and a complete examination from an eye doctor.

 

Vision screenings test the child’s visual acuity at distance. Some screenings also will include a general test for “crossed eyes.” Eye doctors should test your child for their acuity at distance as well as up close. They will evaluate how the eyes move together, check for crossed eyes, see how well the eyes focus, and check for the health of the front and the back of the eyes.

 

Eye doctors who work with children have materials and instruments that allow them to examine the child even if the child can not read. Most children find the eye examination a pleasant experience.

 

Because over 80 percent of all learning is processed through vision, I advise all parents to have their children’s eyes examined by an eye doctor before they start any formal schooling, and sooner if the parent notices any signs or symptoms. Such symptoms include:

• rubbing of the eyes

• tilting the head

• avoiding books or pictures

• excessive blinking,

• closing one eye

• an apparent eye turn.

 

There are a number of children who can see clearly, but have to focus their eyes so hard when they read that they are unable to concentrate on what they are reading. This often leads to poor reading performance and much frustration for the child and their parents. These children will often pass a vision screening, so parents believe that the reading problem is not related to the child’s eyes. I see many children in my office with this problem. Sometimes it is the major cause of the reading problem, and sometimes it is just one component of a more complex reading problem, but it is important not to rely on a vision screening, especially if reading difficulties exist.

 

All parents want their children to be successful in school, and getting off to a good start is critical in building that educational foundation for the future. Getting your child’s eyes examined is an important step in that process.