When should my child have an eye exam?

According to the American Optometric Association (AOA), healthy eyes and good vision play a critical role in how infants and children learn to see. It is estimated that 80% of learning occurs through vision. The AOA recommends eye care check-ups starting at age 6 months followed by every two years - even if no eye or vision problems are apparent - and more frequently if experiencing signs that may indicate a vision problem (see signs below).

As a family practice, we are one of the few practices that serves children under age 5 in the Greater Charlottesville area. The team at Crozet Eye Care is trained to work with children of all ages to ensure that check-ups and visits are as comfortable and pleasant as possible for our little patients (our fun prizes help!).

The following signs may be indications of eye and vision problems:

For Pre-Schoolers, in which it is estimated that 10% are affected by vision problems:

Sitting close to the TV or holding a book too close

Squinting

Tilting their head

Frequently rubbing their eyes

Short attention span for the child's age

Turning of an eye in or out

Sensitivity to light

Difficulty with eye-hand-body coordination when playing ball or bike riding

Avoiding coloring activities, puzzles and other detailed activities

For School-Age Children:

Frequent eye rubbing or blinking

Short attention span

Avoiding reading and other close activities

Frequent headaches

Covering one eye

Tilting the head to one side

Holding reading materials close to the face

An eye turning in or out

Seeing double

Losing his or her place when reading

Difficulty remembering what he or she read

Contact me with any questions, drfranklin@crozeteyecare.com