Routine Eye Examinations for Children
Many people think of eye problems as something that happens to older people, but in fact, there are many eye conditions that can affect people in all stages of life - even childhood. Early detection and treatment of eye problems and diseases can help ensure a lifetime of good vision for your children.
The American Academy of Ophthalmology, as part of their “May Healthy Vision Month” program, recommends the following schedule for routine eye examinations in children.
Recommended Schedule for Routine Eye Exams
Ages 0-2
Infants and toddlers should be screened for common eye problems, such as strabismus (crossed eyes) and amblyopia (lazy eye), during their regular pediatric appointments. If warranted, your pediatrician may refer your child to a pediatric ophthalmologist for treatment. Remember, it is easier to correct these common vision problems the earlier they are detected, while your child’s neural network is forming.
Infants and toddlers should be screened for common eye problems, such as strabismus (crossed eyes) and amblyopia (lazy eye), during their regular pediatric appointments. If warranted, your pediatrician may refer your child to a pediatric ophthalmologist for treatment. Remember, it is easier to correct these common vision problems the earlier they are detected, while your child’s neural network is forming.
Ages 3-5
Vision testing is recommended for all children starting at around three years of age during regular primary care appointments. At this age, your child is starting to become verbal, although he or she may not even realize that they are having a problem seeing. You should observe your child to see if there is any sign of a vision problem, such as squinting or holding a book further away than normal.
Vision testing is recommended for all children starting at around three years of age during regular primary care appointments. At this age, your child is starting to become verbal, although he or she may not even realize that they are having a problem seeing. You should observe your child to see if there is any sign of a vision problem, such as squinting or holding a book further away than normal.
If your pediatrician suspects your child has a vision problem, he or she may be referred to an optometrist or ophthalmologist for a visual acuity test. While this is a simple test for older children and adults, it can be challenging in younger children who have shorter attention spans.
Ages 6-19
School-age children should have eye exams every one to two years or as needed. At this age, your child is able to express what he or she sees, the child may still be unaware of a problem. In many cases, problems with schoolwork may be caused by vision problems - either not being able to clearly see his or her books or the blackboard. Your child’s teacher may be the first to notice a vision problem.
School-age children should have eye exams every one to two years or as needed. At this age, your child is able to express what he or she sees, the child may still be unaware of a problem. In many cases, problems with schoolwork may be caused by vision problems - either not being able to clearly see his or her books or the blackboard. Your child’s teacher may be the first to notice a vision problem.
If your child requires eye glasses or contact lenses to correct a vision problem, an annual eye examination will be required to monitor the prescription.
Remember, protecting your children’s eyes from accidents, along with early detection and treatment of eye problems, are the best ways to keep healthy vision throughout life.
