Your child’s vision is a vital part of their growth, learning, and overall well-being. However, many parents aren’t sure when their kids should have their first eye exam. Since early detection of vision issues is key to ensuring healthy development, knowing the right time to schedule an exam can make all the difference.

Why Early Eye Exams Are Crucial

Your child’s vision plays a significant role in their early learning and development. From exploring their environment as toddlers to reading, writing, and engaging in classroom activities, good vision is essential for success. Early eye exams can detect common issues such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, astigmatism, or even serious eye conditions like amblyopia (lazy eye) or strabismus (crossed eyes). The earlier vision problems are identified, the better the chances of correcting or managing them effectively.

When Should Kids Get Their First Eye Exam?

The American Optometric Association (AOA) recommends the following timeline for children’s eye exams:

•       First Eye Exam: At 6 months of age

•       Second Eye Exam: At 3 years of age

•       Third Eye Exam: Before starting school (ages 5–6)

•       Annual Exams Thereafter

These exams are particularly important because many vision issues in children can go unnoticed. Kids might not realize their vision isn’t normal, so it’s up to parents to schedule regular checkups to catch any problems early.

Signs Your Child Might Need an Eye Exam Sooner

While the above timeline is a great starting point, some children might need an eye exam earlier or more frequently. Keep an eye out for these signs:

•          Frequent squinting or rubbing their eyes

•          Holding books or screens very close to their face

•          Tilting their head or covering one eye

•          Complaints of headaches or eye discomfort

•          Trouble focusing or staying engaged in school

If you notice any of these behaviors, contact our trusted Buckhead eye doctor to schedule an exam.

What to Expect During a Child’s Eye Exam

At Family Eye Care Center of Atlanta, our goal is to make your child’s eye exam a comfortable and enjoyable experience. During the visit, Dr. Locke will perform a series of tests to evaluate your child’s vision, eye alignment, and overall eye health. These exams are non-invasive and designed with your child’s age and needs in mind.

For infants and toddlers, tests like light reflex assessments and pupil response are often used. For older children, tools like visual acuity charts and depth perception tests help determine how well they see and whether corrective lenses are needed.

Schedule Your Child’s First Eye Exam Today

Early eye exams are a vital part of ensuring your child’s overall health and development. By scheduling these appointments, you’re giving your child the gift of clear vision, which can significantly impact their ability to learn, play, and grow. Whether it’s their first exam at six months or a routine visit before starting school, regular checkups are key to catching potential issues early and ensuring their eyes are healthy.

At Family Eye Care Center of Atlanta, we provide personalized, comprehensive eye care for children of all ages. Contact our office in Atlanta, Georgia, by calling (404) 905-1400 to schedule your child’s first eye exam today.