Routine Eye Exams

Regular eye exams are important for children since their eyes can change significantly in as little as a year as the eye grows. Good eyesight is critical for a child’s life and achievements since success in school is closely tied to eye health. School demands intense visual involvement, including reading, writing, using computers, and blackboard/smartboard work. Even physical activities and sports require strong vision. If their eyes aren’t up to the task, a child may feel tired, have trouble concentrating, have problems in school or have difficulty playing their favorite games which may affect their overall quality of life.

When to Perform a Pediatric Eye Exam?

According to research, a child should have an initial screening between 6 and 12 months of age. After that, annual vision screenings are recommended throughout childhood in order to help detect any abnormalities as the eyes develop. Full eye examinations should be periodically done by an optometrist or ophthalmologist every 1-3 years if the child is passing the screening exams.

For a newborn, a pediatrician or family physician should examine the baby’s eyes to perform a test called “red reflex test” which is a basic indicator that the eyes are normal. In a case that the baby is premature or at high risk for medical problems for other reasons, has signs of abnormalities, or has a family history of serious vision disorders in childhood, the baby should be referred for a comprehensive exam with a pediatric ophthalmologist or pediatric optometrist.

A second screening examination should be done by the pediatrician to infants between six months and the first birthday, with referral as indicated if the infant fails the screening.

For a Preschooler, between the ages of 3 and 5 years, a comprehensive eye examination should be performed by an optometrist or ophthalmologist. As part of this exam, a child’s visual acuity and eye alignment should be assessed. If the child is diagnosed with misaligned eyes (strabismus), "lazy eye” (amblyopia), refractive errors (astigmatism, myopia, hyperopia) or any other focusing problems, it’s important to begin treatment as soon as possible to ensure successful vision correction and life-long benefits.

At School age or upon entering school, the child’s eyes should be screened for visual acuity and alignment. In this age group, nearsightedness (myopia) is the most common refractive error and can be corrected with eyeglasses.

There are some signs that parents can tell if their child has a vision problem. For example, the child may squint, hold reading materials very close to their face, or complain about things appearing blurry. However, there are some less obvious signs that may indicate vision problems, such as having a short attention span, quickly losing interest in games, projects or activities that require using their eyes for an extended period of time, or losing their place when reading. Kids with vision problems may also choose to avoid reading, drawing, playing games or doing other projects that require focusing up close. Another sign is that a child may turn his or her head to the side when looking at something in front of them. This may be a sign of a refractive error, including astigmatism, so by turning their head helps the child see better.

That’s why it is so important for kids to have regular eye screenings with an optometrist or ophthalmologist. The earlier a vision problem is found and treated, the better off your child will be in and out of school.

Insurance for a Routine Eye Exam

A routine eye exam is a comprehensive examination to look for signs of eye disease and to prescribe glasses or contact lenses if needed. Any medical condition of the eyes and surrounding tissue changes the routine examination of the eyes from routine into a medical eye exam. Medical exams are covered by your health insurance, but routine exams are not (they are covered by a separate vision insurance). If you do not think your child has a medical issue with the eyes, make sure you have routine vision coverage for your child’s exam.