Eye Exams for Kids: When to Start and What’s Checked

As a parent, one of the most important steps you can take for your child’s well-being is ensuring they have healthy vision. Children rely heavily on their eyesight for learning, development, and everyday activities. Regular eye exams play a vital role in detecting vision problems early - before they affect school performance or daily life. But when should kids start getting eye exams, and what exactly do optometrists check?

When Should Kids Start Eye Exams?

Experts recommend the following schedule for children’s eye exams:

• Preschool years (3-5 years): Before children start school, it’s important to identify vision problems that could affect learning, such as amblyopia (lazy eye), strabismus (eye turn), or significant refractive errors.

• School-age years (6-18 years): Annual exams are recommended, even if your child doesn’t complain of vision issues. Many vision problems go unnoticed because kids assume their sight is “normal.”

What’s Checked During a Child’s Eye Exam?

A pediatric eye exam goes far beyond reading letters on a chart. At Texas State Optical, we check for:

• Visual acuity: Measures how clearly your child can see at different distances.

• Eye alignment and movement: Ensures both eyes work together and track objects correctly.

• Refraction: Determines whether your child needs glasses for nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism.

• Binocular vision and depth perception: Assesses how well the eyes coordinate to provide clear, comfortable vision.

• Overall eye health: Includes examining the front and back of the eye to detect early signs of conditions like allergies, infections, or even rare childhood eye diseases.

Why Early Eye Care Matters

Children with untreated vision problems may struggle with reading, attention in the classroom, and even social development. Early detection and treatment, including options like myopia management to slow the progression of nearsightedness, can make a significant difference in their confidence, academic performance, and overall quality of life.

Schedule a Pediatric Eye Exam in Richmond Today

Eye exams are a critical part of your child’s health and development. By starting exams early and keeping up with regular visits, you can help ensure your child has the clear vision they need to succeed.

Schedule your child’s eye exam at Texas State Optical and set them up for a lifetime of healthy vision. Visit our office in Richmond, Texas, or call (832) 783-9964 to book an appointment today.