Children's eyes are constantly developing. Our pediatric eye exams are designed to catch vision problems early — from 6 months to 12 years — when treatment makes the biggest difference.
Children rarely complain about vision problems because they don't know what clear vision is supposed to feel like. A comprehensive pediatric eye exam goes far beyond a school screening to evaluate the full health and development of your child's eyes. Learn more about what a children's eye exam involves and the age milestones we recommend.
The American Optometric Association recommends a child's first eye exam at 6 months. School-based vision screenings miss many common conditions that a full exam will catch.
Infants (6–12 months)
The first exam checks that both eyes are developing correctly and screens for issues like misalignment, refractive errors, and problems that are easiest to treat at this stage.
School-age children (5–12 years)
Vision problems are one of the leading causes of learning difficulties. Annual exams help ensure your child can see the board, read comfortably, and focus throughout the school day.
Children showing signs of trouble
Squinting, sitting too close to screens, covering one eye, frequent headaches, or difficulty reading — any of these can signal a vision problem that deserves prompt evaluation.
We take a patient, gentle approach with every young patient. Our exams are age-appropriate, engaging, and designed to put both children and parents at ease from start to finish.
Even pre-readers and young children can be accurately tested using picture charts, matching games, and non-verbal assessments — no letters required.
After every exam, we walk parents through the findings in plain language and explain any recommended next steps, including glasses, treatment, or follow-up.
If glasses are needed, your child's prescription is ready the same day. Our optical boutique carries frame options well-suited for younger patients.
Have more questions? Our team is always happy to chat — give us a call or send a text.
The American Optometric Association recommends an infant's first exam at 6 months of age, again at age 3, and then annually starting at age 5 or when they begin school. Children at higher risk — such as those with a family history of vision problems — may benefit from earlier or more frequent exams.
Yes. School screenings test a limited range of vision and miss many common conditions, including farsightedness, binocular vision problems, and early amblyopia. A comprehensive eye exam is the only way to fully assess your child's vision and eye health.
No problem at all. We use age-appropriate charts and techniques that don't require reading — including picture matching and objective testing methods that work for infants and pre-readers. Children do not need to be able to identify letters for an accurate exam.
Many vision insurance plans include benefits for children's annual eye exams and glasses. Additionally, the InfantSEE program provides no-cost eye exams for infants 6–12 months of age. Contact our office and we can help you understand what your plan covers.
Book a pediatric eye exam today — we welcome patients as young as 6 months.