Importance of Eye Exams for Children

Young children often can’t explain that they have trouble seeing. That's why it’s terribly important to schedule your children’s eye exams regularly to ensure that their sense of sight is functioning properly.

Vision is one of our most precious senses and the majority of vision problems can be fixed when they are diagnosed and treated early. Your child should have his or her first eye examination between six to nine months of age, with the next one scheduled between ages two to four, and then again at five to six years. After the age of six, your child should receive an eye exam yearly.

Early eye exams help children develop healthy eyesight, which is needed to learn near-far vision, understand peripheral vision and master hand-eye coordination. Pediatricians are the first doctors to examine your children, and if they suspect any potential vision problems, they will advise that an optometrist performs a thorough examination. Our optometrists at Market Mall Optometry have the training and expertise to examine your child’s eyes.

Eye exams generally include the following:

• Vision testing
• Evaluating eye alignment
• Examining medical history
• Prescribing eyeglasses (if required)
• Taking in-depth photos of the eyes

Building a relationship with the team at our Calgary eye clinic starts with your child’s initial visit. It’s important that our optometrists learn the medical history of your child, if there were any complications during pregnancy, if your child has had any development problems, or if your family has a history of vision problems. All these factors can play a role in your child’s future vision and routine eye examinations can ensure that your child maintains healthy sight throughout his or her life.

To schedule an appointment or to find out more about our optometry services offered in Calgary, contact Market Mall Optometry today on 403-286-4884.