Did you know that a child's eyes are not fully formed until between the ages of five and eight? Even then, some studies show that eyes continue developing until well into the teen years. This ongoing development is just one of many reasons why pediatric eye exams are central to your growing child's health. At Precision Optometry, our family eye doctor works with children of all ages to ensure healthy visual development. We invite you to give our optometrist in Rocklin a call today to schedule a pediatric eye exam. In the meantime, read on to learn about the eye care needs of children of different ages.

Newborns

When your child is in their first months of life, their eyes should be screened by a pediatric eye doctor to check their pupil and blinking response. Other simple tests, like a light reflex, can also indicate early developmental issues that can be assessed further if necessary.

Six Months to One Year

As your child grows through their first year, their eye exam will become a little more detailed to monitor the development of his or her eyes. In addition to pupil and blink response tests, our pediatric optometrist will check your child’s eye movement and alignment. As will be the case throughout the rest of childhood, early intervention for any suspected issues is crucial to preventing eye conditions from seriously impairing your child’s vision.

One to Three Years Old

By this point, your child should already be getting regular checkups. Part of this should include a basic eye exam to ensure their visual development is continuing normally. Sometimes amblyopia or "lazy eye" can be spotted as early as one to three years old, and proper treatment can begin. 

Three to Five Years Old

Starting around age three, children should see a pediatric eye doctor for vision tests (with an eye chart) and alignment checks. If any issues are noticed, a more comprehensive exam may be needed to diagnose the problem and determine the best course of treatment. Some children may also need corrective lenses at this young age, which will help them be able to focus and learn better as they start school. 

Five Years Old and Beyond

Late elementary school is when many children find they need corrective lenses to see well. It's also when some children start encountering other issues like misalignment or "lazy eye," which can be corrected in most cases through early intervention. From the age of five and onward, your child should have annual eye exams with a family eye doctor.

Contact Our Optometrist in Rocklin for Pediatric Eye Exams

For more information on pediatric eye care or to schedule an appointment with our family eye doctor, call Precision Optometry today at (916) 782-2020.