When Should You Get Your Children's Eyes Tested? Pediatric Exams Explained

At Flores Optometry, Inc., we believe that early and regular pediatric eye exams can make a significant difference in your child's learning, development, and overall quality of life. Here’s what you need to know about when to schedule your child's eye exams and why they are so important.

When Should Your Child Have Their First Eye Exam?

According to the American Optometric Association (AOA), children should have their first comprehensive eye exam between six to twelve months old. At this age, optometrists can assess important visual milestones, such as how well your child can focus, how their eyes move together, and if there are any early signs of vision issues. If everything appears normal, the next eye exam should take place around age three, followed by another before starting kindergarten, typically between ages five and six.
 

Why Are Early Eye Exams Important?

Vision problems can develop quietly in young children. Kids often do not realize they see differently than they should, and they may not complain or even notice. Without early testing, conditions like amblyopia (lazy eye), strabismus (crossed eyes), and significant refractive errors (nearsightedness, farsightedness, astigmatism) can go undetected and untreated.
 

Vision is deeply connected to how children learn and interact with the world around them. An undiagnosed vision problem can affect reading, writing, coordination, and even behavior. Early intervention can prevent more serious complications and help your child perform their best both in and out of the classroom.
 

How Often Should Pediatric Eye Exams Be Scheduled?

After the initial exams at six months, three years, and before kindergarten, children should generally have an eye exam every year, depending on their individual needs. If your child wears glasses or contact lenses, yearly exams are especially recommended to monitor changes in prescription and overall eye health.

Children with a family history of eye conditions, premature birth, or other risk factors may require more frequent evaluations. Your optometrist will guide you on the best schedule based on your child's unique needs.
 

Signs Your Child May Need an Eye Exam Sooner

While routine exams are important, certain signs could indicate a vision problem and warrant an earlier visit to the optometrist, including:

• Frequent eye rubbing

• Squinting or covering one eye

• Complaints of headaches or eye strain

• Holding books or screens very close

• Difficulty maintaining eye contact

• Struggles with hand-eye coordination tasks like catching a ball

• Trouble focusing in school or a sudden drop in academic performance
   

If you notice any of these symptoms, schedule an appointment promptly.
 

What to Expect During a Pediatric Eye Exam

At Flores Optometry, Inc., pediatric eye exams are designed to be comfortable and engaging for young patients. We assess visual acuity, eye alignment, focusing skills, and eye health. We use age-appropriate techniques to make the exam easy and stress-free for your child. If vision correction is needed, we’ll discuss the best options to support your child’s visual development, whether it's glasses, vision therapy, or monitoring their eye health over time.
 

Schedule Your Child’s Eye Exam Today

Your child’s vision is foundational to their growth, learning, and confidence. By scheduling regular pediatric eye exams, you can help set them up for success now and in the future. Early detection and treatment of vision issues can make a world of difference.
 

Flores Optometry, Inc. is proud to support the healthy development of children’s vision in our community. If your child is due for their first eye exam or their next one, visit our office in San Leandro, California, or call (510) 372-2900 today.