Want to know when and how often to get your child’s eyes tested?

Your child’s eyes are incredible tools for learning and connecting with the world around them. That’s why taking care of their vision and eye health in the early years is paramount for their onward development.

Ensure your child’s eyes are working at their best and discover the answers to some of our most commonly asked questions about child eye exams in our useful guide.

Why should you get your child’s eyes tested?

Children may not always recognise that they have a vision problem, leading to undiagnosed and untreated eye conditions that could cause issues later in life.

Routine eye tests ensure any vision issues or eye conditions can be treated before they get worse or cause a hindrance to your child’s development.

Signs your child might need an eye test can include –

• Straining their eyes
• Eyes not looking in the same direction
• Complaining about eye pain
• Frequent eye rubbing
• Sensitivity to light or excessive teary eyes
• Closing one eye to see better
• Headaches
• Sitting too close to the TV
• A ‘white reflex’ in photographs, which looks like a white circular glow in the eye
• Difficulty participating in near vision activities like reading or homework, or distance vision activities, such as sports or recreation.

In addition to vision issues, eye tests can also detect many eye diseases and even spot signs of underlying health conditions such as diabetes and autoimmune diseases, increasing the chances of early detection and treatment.

Book your child a free eye test at Opticare Opticians here.

When should you book your child’s first eye test?

Your child will likely undergo several eye checks in the first years of their life, as part of the newborn physical examination. However, these checks aren’t as thorough as more comprehensive eye examinations that are carried out by an optometrist.

It is advised to book an eye exam for your child around about the age of four to detect any vision issues that could impede your child’s learning and development.

How often should children have their eyes tested?

Optometrists recommend testing children’s eyes once a year after age four to quickly identify any changes in vision or eye health.

If you are unsure, an optometrist will be able to advise on the recommended frequency for eye exams.

Are children’s eye tests free?

Eye tests are free and covered by the NHS for all children under 16 and young people under 19 in full-time education.

What to expect during a child’s eye test

Before your child’s eye test

To prepare for the eye test, you may want to note down any signs that your child may have displayed regarding their vision, including squinting, frequently sitting too close to the TV or light sensitivity (see our other signs to look out for with the bullet points above).

When you check in for their appointment, our welcoming receptionists will greet you and your child before notifying the optometrist of your arrival.

During your child’s eye test

Your child’s optometrist will begin the eye test by assessing your child’s history (if available) and any changes you may have noticed. The optometrist will then carefully examine your child’s eye to detect any irregularities.

The optometrist will use a binocular vision check to ensure your child’s eyes work together to form one clear image. It lets us detect numerous problems that a standard eye test might not expose, such as prolonged vision processing speed and oculomotor dysfunction. This type of check is particularly important for children as it can catch issues that can go on to affect their school life.

We will also conduct a visual acuity test to measure how well your child can see at various distances. Depending on your child’s age and ability to cooperate, this test involves reading letters on a chart or identifying shapes and pictures. It helps determine if there are any refractive errors, such as myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness), or astigmatism.

The optometrist will also evaluate your child’s eye movement and coordination by asking them to follow a moving object, like a pen or a light. This test checks for smooth and coordinated eye movements, which are essential for activities like reading and playing sports.

After your child’s eye test

Our experienced optometrists will explain your child’s eye exam results and answer any questions you may have.

They will take the time to break down the findings, offering detailed explanations and addressing any queries. Using their expertise, they will offer you personal recommendations about what frames and lenses will best suit your child’s needs. Rest assured that you will receive expert guidance needed to make informed decisions about your child’s eye health.

Ready to book your child’s eye test?

Our friendly team of specialists are here to ensure your child receives optimal eye care and vision support in a comfortable and reassuring environment. We offer a comprehensive range of glasses and premium lens options for children with the aim of helping them see their best at all times.

Prioritise your child’s eye health and development by booking an eye test with Opticare Opticians.

Book Your Child's Free Eye Test Today!