The Importance of Eye Exams for Infants and Children

Ensuring your child’s eyes are healthy is a crucial part of their overall development and well-being. Vision plays a key role in how children explore the world, learn, and grow. At Murrayhill Eye Care, we are dedicated to providing expert care for young patients, helping to identify and address potential vision issues early.

The Role of Vision in Development

From the moment they open their eyes, infants begin to rely on vision to process the world around them. During the first few years of life, their visual system develops rapidly. Activities like reaching for toys, learning to walk, and recognizing faces are all tied to visual milestones. If undetected vision issues occur during these critical years, they can potentially delay developmental progress.

When Should Your Child Have Their First Eye Exam?

The American Optometric Association (AOA) recommends that infants have their first comprehensive eye exam at six months of age. Even if your child doesn’t show signs of vision problems, this exam is critical to ensure their eyes are developing normally.

After the initial exam, children should have their next check-up at age 3 and again before starting school (around age 5 or 6). Regular exams should continue throughout their school years, as vision can change over time.

What Happens During a Pediatric Eye Exam?

Many parents wonder how an optometrist evaluates an infant’s or young child’s vision when they can’t read an eye chart. Pediatric eye exams are designed to be engaging and comfortable. At Murrayhill Eye Care, we use specialized tools and techniques to assess:

•          Visual Acuity: Testing how clearly your child can see.
 

•          Eye Alignment and Movement: Ensuring the eyes work together properly.
 

•          Depth Perception: Evaluating your child’s ability to judge distances.
 

•          Overall Eye Health: Checking for any signs of conditions like cataracts or other abnormalities.

Common Vision Problems in Children

Routine eye exams can help identify and treat common childhood vision issues, such as:

•          Amblyopia (Lazy Eye): Reduced vision in one eye due to improper alignment or focus.
 

•          Strabismus (Crossed Eyes): Misaligned eyes that can affect depth perception.
 

•          Myopia (Nearsightedness): Difficulty seeing distant objects, often noticed during school years.
 

•          Hyperopia (Farsightedness): Difficulty focusing on nearby objects, which can affect learning.
 

•          Astigmatism: Blurred vision caused by an irregularly shaped cornea.

Early detection of these conditions can prevent them from worsening and ensure your child’s vision supports their academic and personal success.

A Lifetime of Healthy Vision Starts Early

Building the foundation for a lifetime of healthy vision begins in childhood. By scheduling regular eye exams, you can ensure your child’s eyes are developing properly and address any concerns early. Our compassionate team specializes in pediatric eye care, making the experience enjoyable for children while providing the highest level of care.

Schedule Your Child’s Eye Exam Today

Prioritizing your child’s eye health is one of the most impactful steps you can take for their development, education, and overall well-being. Regular eye exams ensure their vision is clear and their eyes are healthy, helping them succeed both inside and outside the classroom.

Schedule your child’s eye exam with Murrayhill Eye Care, and take the first step in safeguarding their vision for years to come. Visit our office in Beaverton, Oregon, or call (503) 579-2020 to book an appointment today.