Eye examinations are recommended every 12 months for children. MSP will cover eye examinations for children under the age of 19 annually.
ONE IN FOUR CHILDREN HAVE VISION PROBLEMS
By the time kids are old enough to attend school, 25% of them have already developed some kind of vision problems. Be alert for symptoms that may indicate your child has a visual problem such as:
Red, itchy or watering eyes
Sensitivity to light
An eye that consistently turns in or out
Rubbing the eyes or excessive blinking
Covering or closing one eye
Avoiding books and television
Using a finger to maintain place while reading
Headaches or irritability
Holding objects too close
Visible frustration or grimacing
Irritability or short attention span
Omitting or confusing words when reading
Performing below their potential
WHAT TO EXPECT AT YOUR CHILD'S EYE EXAM
Kids love our office and parents love our detailed eye examinations. If your child has vision problems, they may have trouble articulating or identifying vision impairments, meaning that they may go long periods of time before having their vision concerns resolved. Our eye exams pay particular attention to the developing eyes of our pediatric patients to ensure that any developing eye conditions are dealt with quickly.
If there is a potential for a child to need a spectacle prescription, the Optometrist may give special drops similar to dilation drops used on adults that help to determine the exact spectacle prescription your child needs. These drops typically will cause your child to lose the ability to focus on up-close tasks for 8-24 hours.
HOW OFTEN SHOULD CHILDREN HAVE AN EYE EXAM?
Eye examinations are recommended every 12 months for children. MSP will cover eye examinations for children under the age of 19 annually.
EYE TESTING FOR INFANTS
It is recommended to bring your child in for their first exam at the age of 6 months. We have specialized equipment to assess the visual functions and health of your baby’s eyes.