The optometrist can be an important person in your child's life, and your child's first eye exam is an important milestone. It's when the doctor will start to track their vision development and may be their first step towards glasses or contacts if they need them. If you have not yet been to the optometrist with your child, you may be wondering when to have their first exam and what to expect. 

At What Age Should Kids Have Their First Eye Exam?

Regular eye exams are essential for kids as they grow and develop. This is particularly true if there is a family history of vision problems. Plus, regular checkups allow you to keep an eye on any changes in their vision and make sure they're using the correct lenses.

The American Optometric Association (AOA) recommends that children have their first eye exam by the time they are six months old, with the next at around the age of three, and if that one is fine, a third exam around the time they are entering school. Most vision issues can be spotted at this stage and corrected accordingly.

Even if your child doesn't have any eye-related problems, getting regular checkups is still essential for monitoring their vision development. Also, if you notice that they have difficulty seeing objects from far away, have headaches after reading, or are regularly squinting one or both eyes, consult with your doctor.

What Will Happen During the Appointment?

When you arrive at the appointment, the optometrist or ophthalmologist will perform a series of tests to determine if your child has vision problems. These tests may include measuring their visual acuity, refraction testing (to measure how light is bent as it passes through the eye) and checking for signs of cataracts or other eye diseases. 

Your child's comfort will be prioritized during the appointment. The doctor might use toys or stickers as rewards to encourage them to cooperate throughout the exam. The doctor also might ask them questions about shapes and colors on an eye chart to assess their ability to recognize various hues and objects.

It's important to note that the doctor may not be able to tell you whether your child needs glasses during the first appointment. Often, it takes two visits for them to get their first pair of glasses.

For an eye exam that will make your child feel safe and comfortable, put your trust in the eye doctors at Abel, Klecker & Robbins in Lexington, KY.  With over 60 years of experience working with families, including children after the age of 3,  you can rest assured of a smooth and seamless office visit. Learn more about their services by visiting the website. You can also schedule an appointment by calling (859) 269-6921 today.