The first pediatric eye examination of a child should be done at 3 years of age unless some eye problem is noticed before that. Your eye care provider will check for vision, lazy eyes, and crossed eyes. Pediatric eye care in Elmhurst, New York offers comprehensive early assessments to detect such issues. If any vision problem is found, the next regular eye check-up will be advised by your doctor. If not, the next eye check-up for the child should be done every one or two years. Early detection of any eye problem will help to provide timely treatment and thus prevent deterioration of vision.
What to Expect During a Pediatric Eye Exam
Some of the eye exam tests performed on children include:
- Vision assessment: various methods are used to check a child’s visual acuity and are based on the age of child.
- Determination of refractive error: This test is done to determine the need for glasses in children; the test is usually performed after pupil dilation to determine the exact measurement.
- Motility Examination: This is a measurement of the alignment of the eyes for planning treatment of strabismus (misalignment of eyes).
- Biomicroscopy and dilated fundus examinations: these tests are done to investigate the presence of any eye diseases of the cornea, lens, iris, retina, and optic nerve.
After the completion of the comprehensive pediatric eye exam, the doctor will discuss appropriate treatment options and costs and customize the best plan of action for you. He will also answer any questions you may have. If your eye doctor diagnoses your son or daughter with myopia and it is progressing, he may advise you and your child on how to control certain contributing factors or prescribe a program of myopia management. Myopia management involves wearing specialized multifocal eyeglasses or contact lenses or the use of eye drops to control the progression or worsening of myopia.
How Pediatric Eye Exams Are Performed
Pediatric eye exams are conducted using child-friendly techniques that assess both visual acuity and eye alignment. These exams may involve reading charts, using lights to observe eye movement, and dilating pupils to examine the internal eye structure. The process is painless and designed to keep young patients at ease. Vision screenings are not a substitute for comprehensive exams, which offer a more detailed evaluation. Eye doctors may recommend corrective lenses or vision therapy based on the results.
When and How Often to Schedule a Child’s Eye Exam
A child’s first eye exam should be at age 3 unless symptoms appear earlier. Even in the absence of symptoms, regular exams every one to two years help identify hidden vision issues. Children with a family history of eye conditions may require more frequent visits. Milestone check-ins are important before starting school and during early school years. Staying proactive with exams helps support learning, social development, and safety.
Frequently Asked Questions
This section answers common questions that many parents have about pediatric eye exams and vision care for children.
How early can eye problems be detected in children?
What are signs that a child may need an eye exam sooner?
How often should children have eye exams?
Are school vision screenings enough for kids?
Can vision problems affect learning in children?
What if a child is uncooperative during the exam?
Do all children need glasses if something is found during the exam?
Your Eyes Deserve Dedicated Attention
Protect your vision with expert care—schedule your comprehensive eye exam today! Book an appointment now and see the world more clearly.