How Frequent Should Eye Exams Be for Kids? Keeping Your Child’s Vision on Track

As children grow, so do their eyes. Vision plays a critical role in your child’s development, learning, and overall quality of life. That’s why routine eye exams are a vital part of pediatric healthcare. But how often should kids have their eyes checked?
 

Why Annual Eye Exams Are Essential

While vision screenings at school or a pediatrician’s office can identify some issues, they don’t replace a comprehensive eye exam. These exams go beyond checking visual acuity as they also assess eye alignment, focusing ability, overall eye health, and screen for conditions such as amblyopia (lazy eye), strabismus (crossed eyes), and even early signs of myopia (nearsightedness), which is becoming increasingly common in children.
 

Annual exams help us:

• Catch issues early when they’re easiest to treat

• Track developmental changes year over year

• Support learning and performance in school

• Protect eye health with early detection of hidden conditions
   

Children may not always express or even realize they’re experiencing vision problems. They may think everyone sees the way they do. That’s why proactive exams are so important.
 

Recommended Exam Schedule

• First exam: Around 6 to 12 months of age

• Second exam: At age 3

• Before starting school: Around age 5 or 6

• Every year after: Annual eye exams
   

Children who wear glasses, or have a family history of eye issues may need more frequent evaluations.
 

Vision is Key to Learning

More than 80% of what a child learns in school is visual. If your child is struggling with reading, attention, or learning, undiagnosed vision problems may be a contributing factor. Annual eye exams ensure your child is equipped to perform their best - both in the classroom and beyond.
 

Schedule a Pediatric Eye Exam Today

Don’t wait for signs of trouble. A yearly eye exam is a simple step that can make a big difference in your child’s development, comfort, and success. We’re here to help you keep your child’s vision on track with personalized, thorough care.

Schedule your child’s annual eye exam with Eagle Eye Vision Center and give them the clear vision they need to thrive. Visit our office in Stafford, Virginia, or call (540) 720-0407 to book an appointment today.