How Often Should Kids See an Eye Doctor?

Ensuring a child’s overall health and well-being is a top priority for parents. One crucial aspect of their health that often gets overlooked is eye care.

Kids use their vision for almost everything—from learning and reading to playing and exploring the world around them. However, they might not realize when they have a vision problem, and that’s where regular pediatric eye exams come in. So, how often should kids see an eye doctor? 

Recommended eye exam schedule for children 

• Infants (birth to 24 months): The American Optometric Association recommends that babies have their first eye exam at around six months old. This may seem early, but this initial visit is important for assessing their eye health, ensuring their eyes are developing properly, and checking for early signs of eye conditions.  

• Toddlers and preschoolers (2 to 5 years): A follow-up eye exam is recommended between the ages of two and five years, or sooner if you notice any signs of vision problems. This exam will help identify any issues that could affect a child’s development and learning, such as amblyopia (lazy eye) or strabismus (crossed eyes). Children should then see an eye doctor again before they start school.  

• School-aged children (6 to 18 years): Once a child starts school, they should have an eye exam every year. School-aged children are particularly vulnerable to vision changes due to the demands of reading and screen time. 

Signs your child might need an eye exam sooner 

The above schedule serves as a general guideline, and it’s essential to watch out for these signs that they may need an eye exam sooner: 

• Squinting or tilting their head to see better 
• Rubbing their eyes or blinking frequently 
• Complaining of headaches or eye strain 
• Having trouble focusing on schoolwork 
• Holding books or screens too close to their face 
• Struggling with hand-eye coordination 

If you notice any of these symptoms, it may be time to schedule an eye exam with one of our pediatric optometrists in Arlington or Memphis. 

Finding the right eye doctor for your child 

Choosing the right optometrist for your child is an important decision that can greatly impact their comfort and experience during eye exams. At Primary Eye Care of Arlington and South Main, we’ve dedicated ourselves to creating a welcoming and child-friendly environment that puts both kids and parents at ease.

Every child is unique, and we tailor our approach to suit their personality and comfort level. Whether it’s a child’s first eye exam or a routine check-up, we strive to make each visit a positive experience that sets the foundation for a lifetime of healthy vision. 

Healthy vision, confident kids

Regular eye exams are a key part of taking care of your child’s health. By following the recommended schedule and keeping an eye out for any signs of vision problems, you can ensure your child has the clear vision they need for learning and playing. Our team at Primary Eye Care of Arlington and South Main is here to support you every step of the way.  

If your child is overdue for an eye exam or showing signs of vision problems, schedule an appointment today!