When should I get my baby or child’s eyes tested?
It is important to know that the eyes are part of the brain. If for any reason the eyes themselves and the supporting muscles controlling eye movements and focusing will have a direct impact on the learning, functioning and mobility of any growing child. Eyes that see differently to each other may result in one not developing optimally.
If one or both eyes turn in or out when not appropriate, this needs immediate assessment. There may be a congenital condition such as cataracts, that needs a referral to a paediatric ophthalmologist.
All children should have an eye exam when entering school. A simple screening by a nurse at preschool is not comprehensive.
When should I get an urgent appointment for my child?
- Watery eyes: a baby’s tear ducts could be blocked and an optometrist could suggest treatment.
- Red, watery, itchy eyes
- Any discharge eg mucous, pus or excess tears
- Any suspected or known injury to the eye itself, a corneal scratch, foreign body in the eye, or head trauma.
- If you suspect your child isn’t seeing well with one or both eyes
- If one or both parents wear glasses or had an eye turn
- If the child says he or she can’t see well.
- Excessive eye rubbing or head tilting
- Any delays in development eg gross motor skills (balance, walking, clumsiness, kicking a ball) or fine motor skills (cutting, threading, colouring in)
- Any learning delays eg reading or writing etc
Spectacles may be prescribed for use in specific situations or for general use to correct blurry vision caused by long or short sightedness, to reduce visual stress caused by prolonged periods of close work, or to improve the ability of the eyes to work together. Other treatments may include contact lenses, vision therapy and myopia control programs. We have specific lenses designed for this.
Our stores have a wide selection of fashionable kids’ frames to fit all ages including babies and toddlers. We can advise you on all the factors to consider, including the type of lenses and frames most suited to your child’s age, vision, comfort, and the intended use of the spectacles.
Importantly, optometrists can suggest visual hygiene practices which include working distances, breaks, special lenses to decrease screen fatigue and more.
Book an appointment today.
