Children’s eye exams can help detect vision concerns that may affect learning, focus, and daily activities as kids grow.
While babies receive basic vision screenings during pediatric well-child visits, many eye care professionals recommend a child’s first comprehensive eye exam by age 1, with ongoing evaluations becoming especially important during the preschool and early school years. Because young children may not realize their vision is blurry or uneven, some problems can go unnoticed without a full evaluation.
At Richens Eye Center in St. George, Utah, and Mesquite, Nevada, children and families work with board-certified ophthalmologists and experienced optometrists who provide medical and routine eye care for patients of all ages. Dr. Sharon Richens, a board-certified ophthalmologist, Fellow of the American College of Surgeons, and Stanford University graduate, leads a team focused on helping Southern Utah families monitor and protect long-term eye health.
When Should Children Have an Eye Exam?
Most children receive vision screenings from their pediatrician during infancy and early childhood. These screenings help identify obvious concerns, but they are different from comprehensive pediatric eye exams.
Ongoing eye exams become especially important around ages 3 to 6, when vision concerns may begin affecting learning, focus, and classroom activities. Early evaluations can help detect issues related to focusing, eye alignment, depth perception, and visual development.
Signs Your Child May Need an Eye Exam
Some children show clear signs of a vision problem, while others may not realize their vision is affecting reading readiness, focus, or classroom performance as they get older.
Your child may need an eye exam if they:
- Squint frequently
- Sit very close to screens
- Complain about blurry vision
- Rub their eyes often
- Cover one eye while focusing
- Have trouble focusing on objects
- Experience headaches or eye strain
- Struggle to recognize letters or shapes
What Happens During a Children’s Eye Exam?
Children’s eye exams are adjusted based on age and developmental stage. Young children do not need to know letters or read an eye chart to complete an evaluation.
During the appointment, your provider may evaluate eye alignment, focusing ability, visual development, and overall eye health. The exam also helps identify conditions that may not be obvious during a standard vision screening.
At Richens Eye Center, our team works closely with parents to help appointments feel manageable and comfortable for young children.
Schedule a Children’s Eye Exam in St. George or Mesquite
Early comprehensive exams can help identify vision concerns before they begin affecting learning and daily activities.
To schedule a children’s eye exam at Richens Eye Center, call our team at 435-986-2020.
