As a parent, you want to make sure your child is healthy and happy. You schedule routine check-ups, immunizations, and dental exams for them, but what about regular eye exams? Many parents might think that a school vision screening is enough, but it doesn’t catch all eye issues. In this blog post, we’ll talk about the importance of regular children’s eye exams and when your child should see an eye doctor.
Why are regular children’s eye exams important?
Vision screenings don’t detect all vision problems, and children may not realize they have a vision issue because they don’t know what “normal” vision looks like. Regular children’s eye exams can catch problems early on, preventing vision problems from getting worse as they get older. Early detection and treatment of eye issues can help them avoid learning difficulties in school or the need for more extensive treatment later on.
Your child’s first eye exam
According to the American Optometric Association, children should have their first eye exam at six months old. Some eye conditions can develop at an early age, and it’s important to catch and treat them early before they start affecting your child’s learning and other activities. Even if your family doesn’t have a history of eye problems, this first exam can detect any early signs of vision issues and make sure your child’s eyes are developing normally.
After the first exam, they should have another eye exam at age three and again before starting school. School-aged children without vision problems or risk factors should then see an eye doctor at least every two years.
Taking care of your child’s eyes from an early age is important for their overall health and well-being. While vision screenings at school or during check-ups with your child’s doctor are important, they don’t catch all eye issues. By making sure they have regular eye exams starting from a young age, you’re helping to ensure they have the best possible vision and eye health.
At Lemoncelli Eyecare, we offer children’s eye exams for children ages five and up. Our caring and experienced optometrist Dr. Nicole Lemoncelli will make sure your child’s eyes are healthy and that they have the vision they need to succeed in school and beyond. If you’re worried about your child’s eyes or it’s time for their next exam, contact Lemoncelli Eyecare in Nashville and schedule a visit today!