A question we often get is, "When should my child get an eye exam?" Vision is screened within routine visits with a pediatrician and during school screenings. We greatly appreciate efforts at both of these times to help kids see well!
While these screenings are very helpful, many people are not aware that the American Optometric Association recommends comprehensive eye exams completed at the following times regardless or whether the child has complaints or the parent has concerns.
First exam completed between 6 months-12 month old
At least one exam completed between age 3-5 years.
Exam completed before 1st grade and annually afterwards.
This may seem more in depth than what many parents anticipate, but there are well established reasons for this!
Why? The goal of these early exams are somewhat different than those of an adult exam. We are basically trying to ensure that the eyes develop properly so that your child has the best long term vision possible.
Many things can get in the way of proper vision development including an eye turn (which may or may not be obvious), a large difference between the prescription in each eye, a very large prescription, or an issue with your child's ocular health. If the eye doesn't develop properly, your child can develop something called Amblyopia which is reduced vision even with correction. This happens because the connection between the eye and brain is underdeveloped.
When we catch risk factors for amblyopia early on, there are better treatment options available. The earlier treatment is initiated, the better the outcome! Treatment may include wearing glasses full time, patching of the dominant eye, vision therapy, and sometimes referral for surgical care. These measures are all taken with the goal to put the eye in a better position to develop properly. At your child's eye exam we will be sure to explain everything we find and discuss options with you.
How? Many people wonder how a comprehensive eye exam works with young kids that can't give a lot of feedback or respond to questions! A pediatric eye exam can look very different from what you may have experienced before. Not being able to give reliable feedback creates a need to be flexible and adaptable. It also points to why vision screenings are helpful, but not sufficient to thoroughly evaluate your child's vision and eyes.
We are very comfortable using a variety of proven techniques and tests to determine your child's vision and eyes without needing a lot of verbal feedback. We also really try to create an atmosphere that will be a positive experience for each kid by connecting with them and efficiently getting the information we need.
If your child's prescription continues to increase year after year, please visit our Myopia Control page.
Give our Brigham City Eye and Vision Care office a call today at (435) 723-2144 to schedule an appointment.