Early Eye Exams for Children - Early eye examinations are important for young children to detect and treat problems before they interfere with learning. The American Optometric Association recommends periodic vision examination for infants, toddlers, and preschoolers. Vision exams can determine a child's
visual acuity. They are also important in early childhood to detect
visual or physical problems that can affect vision and learning:
- Infants at Age Six Months – Before your baby reaches one year of age, she should have an examination to check for eye diseases and conditions and to ensure the eyes are developing normally. Correction of problems such as amblyopia and strabismus will require early intervention.
- Toddlers at Age Three – Your toddler's visual acuity, eye development, and health should be assessed. Her ability to track movement, focus on objects, and binocular vision will be examined. Your optometrist or ophthalmologist will check again for amblyopia, which can develop over time. Treatment for this disorder is most effective when it is diagnosed and treated before your child reaches age three.
- Kindergarteners at Age Five – Your preschool aged child should be examined at age five to assess readiness for school activities such as reading at close range and at a distance.
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