Most school learning happens visually, so if a child’s visual skills are poor, it can affect their academic achievements. Unfortunately, most kids do not know what perfect vision is and may not realize they have visual problems.
 

Apart from affecting learning and development, eye issues can lead to severe conditions such as glaucoma. Eye exams help detect eye problems early.
 

Why Your Child Needs Pediatric Eye Exams

Children learn by interacting with the environment around them, and a lot of this happens visually. If your child’s vision is impaired, it can affect their cognitive, social, and physical development.
 

Studies suggest that about 10% of preschoolers and 25% of school-going children have vision problems. Poor vision can affect a child’s overall well-being. To learn if your child’s visual abilities and skills are up to par, schedule regular eye exams.
 

Signs Your Child May Have Vision Issues

As a parent, you can observe your child to find out if they have problems with their vision. Several signs can indicate your child may have a vision disorder. They include:
 

·      Red or itchy eyes.

·      Rubbing the eyes.

·      Frequent squinting.

·      Misaligned eyes.

·      Eye discharge.

·      Covering one eye to see clearly.

·      Tilting the face to see.

·      Light sensitivity.

·      Constant blinking.

·      Eye pain or headaches.
 

If your child has difficulty concentrating or holds reading materials close to the face, it could indicate a vision problem. Other signs are clumsiness, difficulty focusing, sitting close to the TV, avoiding certain activities, and trouble making eye contact.
 

Frequency of Children’s Eye Exams

As a parent, you may be wondering when to schedule eye exams for your child. The frequency of eye exams for children depends on various factors, including age, family history, and medical history. If your child is prone to eye conditions, you should schedule more frequent eye exams. Eye specialists recommend eye exams based on age:
 

·      The first eye exam should be scheduled when your child is six months old.

·      Your child should have their second comprehensive eye exam at three years of age.

·      Unless otherwise advised, the third eye exam should be when the child is five or six.

·      Between six and 18 years old, you should schedule eye exams for your school-age child every two years.
 

If your child needs vision correction or has an eye condition, the doctor will recommend more frequent, comprehensive eye exams.
 

What Pediatric Eye Exams Look for

During an eye exam, the doctor will check the child’s vision and overall eye health. Pediatric eye doctors have the expertise to look for signs of eye diseases or conditions. They test for various conditions, including myopia (nearsightedness), amblyopia (lazy eye), and strabismus (crossed eyes). The doctor may recommend corrective lenses where necessary.
 

Managing Your Child’s Eye Health

You can ensure you protect your child’s eyes and visual health by scheduling regular eye exams. Watch for signs and symptoms of visual issues, and make sure that you follow your doctor’s guidelines to schedule exams. School vision tests are not a substitute for eye exams. Your child’s eye health affects their overall health and well-being.
 

For more information on the frequency of scheduling eye exams for your child, visit Chinone Optometry. Our offices are in Concord and Colma, California. Call (925) 682-8885 or (650) 992-1800 to book an appointment today.