Children
When should my child get their eyes checked? The American Optometric Association recommends that every child have a complete eye exam under age one, at three years of age, and before they start school. While in school, yearly evaluations are recommended because 80% of learning is visual . A B See Vision Care is an InfantSEE provider and will provide a FREE vision screening to all babies between the ages of 6 to 12 months. How do you examine my children’s eyes when they are too young to talk? Every child is evaluated individually, using age-appropriate techniques. A B See Vision Care measures if a child needs glasses by shining a light into the child’s eye and observing the reflection from the patient’s retina. Dr. Porter also makes the exam fun by using toys, bright lights, animated videos, and “treasure’s” from the “treasure chest” for their reward.
What symptoms should I look for if my child has a vision problem?
- Blurred vision at distance or near, or momentary blur when shifting distances
- Squinting, frowning, excessive blinking or eyes watering
- Placing eyes too closely to a book, computer screen or work surface
- Placing eyes too closely to a book, computer screen or work surface
- Frequently rubbing eyes after near work
- Loses place while reading and/or using a finger to help keep their place
- Moving head rather than eyes back and forth across the page
- Dislike or avoidance of near tasks, or struggle to read or remain on task
- Complaints of double vision, the words pull apart or run together
- Turning or tilting the head
- Having eyes that are crossed or turned
- Red, sore, or itchy eyes
- Shutting one eye or covering it to help focus the other eye
If your child struggles from any of the above symptoms, please call and make an appointment. The good news is that your child can be helped.