When should a child have a first eye exam?

Most children do not say “my eyes see blurred”. They do not know what normal is. An eye problem is usually found by a parent or a teacher.

Is there a set age for the first exam?

In the sources we read, no single age for a first examination is given. What they share is that problems such as lazy eye are treated better the earlier they are found. According to the NHS, treatment of lazy eye is better started before the age of 7, while vision is still developing. Ask the eye doctor about the exact time of the first examination and the interval between later ones. If there are signs or a family history, do not wait for a particular age.

What signs to look for

According to the sources:

• The eyes are not working together and look in two directions (squint)
• The child closes one eye or squints
• Tilts the head to see
• Has trouble following objects or people
• Rubs the eyes a lot or blinks a lot
• Has headaches or tired eyes
• Is clumsy catching and throwing things, or falls often
• Holds the television, phone or tablet very close
• Cannot see the board at school

None of these on its own proves there is a problem. But all of them are enough reason for an examination.

What is lazy eye?

In lazy eye (amblyopia), the vision of one eye does not develop properly. Usually only one eye is affected, and often there are no signs. Many children do not realise they see better with one eye. You can cover each eye in turn and see whether the child reacts differently.

Treatment depends on the cause. The sources name:

• Glasses
• A patch over the stronger eye
• Drops that temporarily blur the stronger eye
• Surgery, if the cause is a cataract, a drooping eyelid or a squint

Squint surgery straightens the eyes but does not improve vision.

Short-sightedness in children

Short-sightedness usually starts between the ages of 6 and 13 and can get worse until about age 20, when the eye stops growing. It often runs in families, and the exact cause is not clear. The source says that more time outdoors, especially for children, may prevent it getting worse. There are also ways to slow its progress, which the doctor can explain.

What to do

• If you see any sign, book an examination.
• A child’s examination may include drops so the back of the eye can be seen better.
• If the doctor gives glasses, use them as instructed.
• If a child has a blow to the eye, even a small one, do not delay. See the guide “When should I get urgent help?”.