Pediatric Eye Exams
Why do children need eye exams?
Over 75% of learning is attributed to our visual system, and it is estimated that 1 in 4 children have a vision problem. A comprehensive eye exam with an optometrist not only evaluates visual acuity (20/20 vision) to obtain an accurate prescription, but your eye care provider will also analyze how the eyes work together. An efficient binocular visual system will help relieve eyestrain, fatigue, or possibly even double vision - all of which can greatly reduce learning potential.
It is important to know that a vision screening by a child's pediatrician or at their school is not the same as an eye examination by a doctor of optometry. Vision screenings are a limited process and can't be used to diagnose an eye or vision problem, but rather may indicate a potential need for further evaluation. They may miss as many as 60% of children with vision problems. Even if a vision screening does not identify a possible vision problem, a child may still have one.
InfantSEE
From the time a baby is born, their eyes provide vital information about the world surrounding them. Eye and vision problems in infancy and childhood can lead to delays in development. It is crucial to catch conditions early so babies and children have the best chance to learn and grow.
InfantSEE is a public health program that is designed to ensure that eye care becomes an important part of an infant’s life and to improve the overall quality of life- and Dr. Lynch is a provider. Under this program, participating doctors of optometry provide a comprehensive infant eye assessment between 6 and 12 months of age free of charge regardless of family income or access to insurance coverage.
Preschool Age (3-5)
Between the ages of 3 and 5, your child should have a thorough, in-person eye examination to make sure his or her vision is developing properly and there is no evidence of eye disease. Children at this age do not typically complain about their eyes. It is important to watch for signs of issues like squinting, tilting their head, holding objects close to their face or sitting close to the tv, frequently rubbing their eyes, or the turning of an eye in or out.
Unless advised otherwise, your child’s next eye exam should be before they start school- around 5-6 years old.
School age (6-18)
When poor vision is undetected, learning becomes frustrating and stressful. Sports and many other activities also require clear distance vision, depth perception, and good hand-eye coordination.
Some signs of vision problems are frequent eye rubbing or blinking, frequent headaches, discomfort, or fatigue, avoiding reading, holding reading materials close to the face, or difficulty remembering what they read.
Vision may change rapidly during school years, so children should receive an eye exam every year or more frequently if recommended by your child’s optometrist. Ask us if your child is a good fit for the MiSight Myopia Management Program. Find more information here.
