When should my child get an eye test?

When it comes to our children's health, many parents tend to focus on their physical health, such as ensuring they eat a balanced diet and get enough exercise. However, it's essential to prioritise their eye health as well. In fact, in Queensland babies have their first eye examination before leaving hospital after birth!

The reason for this early examination is that many vision problems can occur in infants and young children that may not be immediately noticeable. A comprehensive eye exam at this age can detect any eye problems, including lazy eye, crossed eyes, and other conditions that can lead to vision problems later in life.

After this initial examination, children should receive follow-up exams at age 3, and before starting school, typically around age 5 or 6. During these exams, the optometrist will check for any issues with visual acuity, eye coordination, and eye health. They may also screen for conditions such as colour blindness and nearsightedness.

Getting your child's eyes tested is important for several reasons. Firstly, untreated eye problems can cause vision loss, which can affect your child's development and ability to learn. Poor vision can lead to difficulties in school, reading, and other daily activities.

Secondly, eye exams can also detect other health problems. For example, during an eye exam, the optometrist can look for signs of diseases such as diabetes and high blood pressure, which can affect the eyes.

Lastly, eye exams can help catch and correct vision problems early, which can prevent more severe issues from developing later on. By addressing these problems early, children can avoid more invasive treatments or surgeries and improve their overall quality of life.

In conclusion, it's important to prioritise your child's eye health by getting them regular comprehensive eye exams. The first exam generally takes place after birth, with follow-up exams at ages 3 and before starting school. Detecting and treating vision problems early can prevent long-term vision loss and improve your child's overall health and quality of life.