Regular optometrist visits help keep track of your eye health and catch vision problems early. Early detection of eye problems is especially crucial for children because it can affect their learning and development. It could be hard for your little one to participate in school and play if they have visual difficulties.
Parents often ask how often their kids should see an eye doctor. Continue reading to find out.
Newborn
An eye care specialist must assess a newborn’s eyes, testing their red reflex and blink and pupil response. A comprehensive eye exam might be necessary if a child is showing signs of eye disease. It’s the same for babies who are prematurely born or have a family history of childhood eye problems.
Ages Between 6 and 12 Months
You must schedule another eye exam for your children before their first birthday. Expect your eye doctor to do a visual assessment of the eye. They should also examine the alignment and movement of the eyes.
One to Three Years of Age
An eye doctor will check your child’s eye development between the ages of one and three. The doctors might do a photoscreening test, which involves using a special camera to capture images of your child’s eyes. This device will help specialists diagnose lazy eye or amblyopia. They might refer your kid to an ophthalmologist if they see issues with the images.
Three to Five Years
Your kid’s vision and eye alignment must be assessed between the ages of three and five. A visual acuity test is a good idea if your child can already read. This assessment determines how sharp your little one’s vision is and if they need to wear prescription glasses.
If during the eye exam your child shows signs of amblyopia, strabismus and refractive errors, schedule a visit to an ophthalmologist. The earlier these eye conditions are treated, the better you can protect your child’s vision.
Five Years and Up
Your child’s visual acuity and alignment must be tested once they turn five. Myopia is one of the most common refractive errors in children of this age.
At Northern Virginia Doctors of Optometry, we are here to take care of your family’s vision and eye health. Besides annual eye exams, we also offer pre- and post-operative care for LASIK eye surgery. Call us at (703) 660-9494, or fill out our contact form to schedule an appointment. We assist patients in Alexandria, VA, and nearby communities.
