Children’s Vision

Did you know that 80% of all learning occurs through the eyes? Children are often unaware of a vision problem because they think everyone sees things as they do - even if images are blurred. Or they may not know how to express any vision concerns to the appropriate adult.

Indicators that a child may have a vision problem:

Squinting at distance and/or near vision
Holds reading materials closer than normal
Avoids close work
Loses place while reading
Poor and/or hard to read printing/handwriting
Makes letter reversals when writing or reading
Unexplained headaches
Turns head to one side to use one eye only
Short attention span for distance or near tasks

The only way to be certain that your child's vision is normal is with a thorough vision and eye health examination. The Canadian Association of Optometrists recommends that children have a vision and eye health examination by age three and annual visits thereafter.

Children's Vision care message

Our doctors will test for:

Proper vision and make recommendations to achieve clear vision if necessary
Normal eye muscle balance and eye movements
Normal eye health
Depth perception and colour vision

Early detection and treatment of any problems will improve your child's ability to learn and get the most out of school.

Do you do children's exams and when should my child's first exam be?

All of our doctors and locations do eye exams for children. Infants as young as six months can be examined to check vision and eye health. All children should have an eye exam by three years old.

Did you Know?

Alberta Health Care provides coverage for one visit a year for children up to 19 years of age. Some patients with a clinical need (like diabetes, glaucoma, or cataracts) are covered for additional "follow up" procedures.

Related story: Contact Lenses for Children

Call one of our offices today to schedule an appointment for your child. Don't forget about your child's vision as part of back to school basics.