Life can get hectic when you’re a parent, so it’s understandable if eye exams aren’t at the top of your list. But knowing when to start this crucial health routine is incredibly important. In this post, we’ll talk about when to schedule your child’s first eye exam and why keeping up with these appointments is essential for your child’s eye health and development.
When to schedule your child’s first eye exam
You might be surprised to learn that a child’s first comprehensive eye exam should occur around six months. Yes, even at this young age, pediatric optometrists can evaluate vision and eye health using specialized tests. Early detection of potential vision issues is essential to preventing more serious complications later on.
As your child grows, sticking to a regular schedule of eye exams becomes even more important. The American Optometric Association recommends another exam at age three, and then again before starting school, usually around age five or six. These years are critical for development, and early detection of vision problems allows for timely intervention and treatment.
Eye exams during the school years
Once children reach school age, it’s crucial to have their eyes checked by an eye doctor at least every one to two years. During these years, their eyes are constantly developing, and their visual needs can change quickly. Even if early eye exams show no issues, regular check-ups remain essential. These appointments can catch potential problems early, allowing for timely treatment and preventing any issues from affecting their learning and daily activities.
Regular eye exams can uncover subtle vision changes that might not be immediately noticeable. For instance, a child might struggle to see the board in class or experience headaches from straining their eyes. Detecting these issues early means they can be corrected with glasses or other treatments, ensuring your child has the best possible vision for success in school and beyond.
In conclusion
At Ideal EyeCare, we offer pediatric eye exams in Omaha, NE, and Council Bluffs, IA for kids of all ages. We are also Eye Care Council participants in the See to Learn® program, where parents can schedule a FREE vision assessment for their three-year-old child. If your child hasn’t had an eye exam yet, or if you notice them squinting, rubbing their eyes a lot, or holding things too close to their face, don’t wait to schedule an eye exam. These could be signs of vision issues that need attention right away.
Remember, staying ahead of any potential problems is the best way to keep your child’s eyes healthy. Give us a call today to set up an appointment or request an appointment online.