According to the American Optometric Association (AOA), a child with no symptoms should be seen for their first eye exam between 6 and 12 months of age for a baseline evaluation. Our office partners with the AOA to provide these examinations at no cost to the parents through the InfantSee program. If the baseline exam is normal, the recommended age for their next exam is 3 years old, followed by another exam before they begin school. One children are in school, annual eye exams are recommended, unless more frequent examinations are recommended by their eye doctor.
Taking your child to an eye doctor may seem like a daunting task. How can you make visiting an optometrist easier?
- Schedule: If your child has a time when they are particularly grumpy, you may not want to schedule your appointment around that time.
- Your Questions: Have a list of questions ready for the eye doctor, so you don’t forget anything.
- Stories: To prepare your young one for early eye exams, consider reading stories where the characters go to the optometrist.
- Toys: Bring toys for your child to play with in the waiting room and a cuddly toy to help keep little hands away from expensive equipment.
- Doctor’s Questions: If your child is verbal, consider preparing them for questions the doctor may ask them.
- Possibilities: You should also prepare your kid for any tasks the eye doctor may do with them.
- Relax: Finally, make sure you stay relaxed because your little one will take cues from you.
This early eye care is important for children. The earlier you start corrective treatments, the more likely your child will be cooperative. If your young child has vision issues, they may be less interested in puzzles, reading and coloring. All of these activities help stimulate minds and encourage learning. You want your children to be as healthy as possible in every way. Start taking care of their eye health early by visiting Dr. Lauren or Dr. Ryan today!
