Children rarely complain about their vision, because they assume everyone sees the way they do. That’s why regular exams matter even when nothing seems wrong.
A simple schedule
- 6 to 12 months: a first exam to check that the eyes are developing normally
- Ages 3 to 5: at least one exam, including one within 12 months before starting kindergarten
- School years: every year, since vision can change quickly as kids grow
Vision screenings are not eye exams
A school or pediatrician screening checks whether a child can read letters across a room. It can miss farsightedness, focusing problems and eye teaming issues, which are the ones that make reading and homework hard.
Signs to call sooner
- Squinting, tilting the head or covering one eye
- Rubbing the eyes often or complaining of headaches
- Holding books or screens very close
- An eye that turns in, out, up or down
- Losing their place while reading
Most vision plans cover a yearly exam for children. Learn about children’s eye exams at our office.
This article is general information, not medical advice for your situation. If you have symptoms or questions about your own eyes, please call us.