At what age should my child have their first eye exam?
We generally recommend your child having their first eye exam around the age of 4 or before they start school.

What illnesses can affect your eyes?
There are several illnesses that are diagnosed during childhood that could require your child to need an exam prior to age 4. Some of the most common are:

• Sickle Cell
• Prematurity
• Diabetes
• Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis

How will I know if my child is having vision problems?
This can sometimes be difficult as some children never show “symptoms” of vision problems. Some children will complain of problems seeing far away objects, some will squint, and some will even blink more than normal to attempt to clear their vision. The best way to determine if your child has vision problems is with a dilated eye exam.

Is there anything I need to know prior to my child’s appointment?
Yes, more than likely your child will be dilated for their eye exam. Dilating children usually takes longer than dilating an adult therefore your appointment could be lengthy. Sometimes it also helps to discuss with your child that they will be receiving eye drops.