A child’s first eye exam should occur between 6 months and 1 year of age. The purpose of this exam is to identify serious vision and eye health issues. For more information regarding infant eye exams and the InfantSee Program please select the InfantSee Program tab on our website.
At the age of 3 a child should have another comprehensive eye exam. Most parents do not realize that the visual system is not fully developed until approximately 8 years of age. It is very important to identify refractive errors and other vision issues before this time so that treatment can begin and the visual system can develop properly. While vision screenings at the pediatrician and school serve a purpose they are not to be a substitute for a comprehensive eye exam. Our office has a fully equipped children’s exam room and most parents are pleasantly surprised by how cooperative their preschoolers are. Don’t forget, 1 in 4 children have a vision problem that affects learning! It is also important to know that, often times, even the most attentive parent does not realize their child has an eye health issue or needs glasses.
When your child is 5 and ready to start kindergarten they should have another exam. At this point, if there are no risk factors we recommend an exam every two years. If there are risk factors an annual exam is advised.
Your child has two eyes that cannot be replaced and need to last a lifetime! Dr. Branning and Dr. Felger are experts when it comes to examining children and Dr. Branning has often been referred to as “the baby whisperer”. We look forward to helping the young people in your family see their very best every single day of their life!
