Children
Should my children have their eyes examined?
The answer is definitely YES! As a general rule, routine examinations should start at around three or at least before they reach school age, it is not necessary for children to read to have their eyes tested.
However, a surprising number of new born children have vision irregularities, usually of a minor nature. So, if you suspect that your child has defective vision or have a family history of childhood vision problems then you should contact us immediately.
Most parents are quite observant as to whether or not their children seem to be seeing as they expect, but parents should ask themselves:
- Does your toddler have straight eyes and straight head position when looking at things?
- Is there uncontrolled eye jiggling?
- Does your toddler exhibit unusual light sensitivity?
- Are your toddler's pupils clear and not white?
- Do the eyes tear frequently?
You will be relieved to know that babies of just a few months old can be examined and almost all defects can be overcome.
If your toddler does have an eye condition and glasses are suggested to you by your optometrist, please be consistent with the requirement that the children wear their glasses and to be generous with positive support. Wearing glasses will take some getting used to, and supportive and encouraging behavior on the part of the parents and older siblings is really important.
Although eye diseases and conditions, depending on their severity, may be somewhat difficult to deal with, you are doing your children a great service through your awareness of symptoms and early detection of possible problems. Your attentiveness may help to ensure your child's good health and greater quality of life.
If you have any questions about the eyecare of your children, then please do contact us for helpful (and free) advice.