Patricia
Did you know that 6.8% of children younger than 18 in the United States have vision problems that you must correct? You must pay attention to the importance of seeing a pediatric eye doctor.
While children’s eyes usually develop fine with a simple case of a squint, children may encounter vision problems that must be caught and treated on time. But what symptoms should you be on the lookout for? Well, we’re glad you asked.
Check out all the info below and have your child seen by the best pediatric eye doctors today. So let’s dive in!
1. Infants (Birth – 1 Year Old)
If you have an infant, seeing an eye doctor as soon as possible after birth is essential. It is because their vision is still developing, and they are more likely to have problems with their eyesight.
During the first months, your baby’s eyes will undergo many changes. They will learn to focus on objects, track moving objects, and perceive depth. If there are any problems with your baby’s vision during this time, it can lead to developmental delays.
A pediatric eye doctor can check for any problems with your baby’s eyesight and provide necessary treatment. If you think your infant may have a problem with their vision, don’t hesitate to make an appointment with a family eye doctor.
2. Toddlers (1-3 Years Old)
Generally, toddlers should have their eyes examined between the ages of 1-3. It is to ensure you give attention to any early vision problems quickly. The doctor can diagnose diseases or conditions affecting a child’s vision and advise about vision development.
3. Pre-schoolers (3-5 Years Old)
If your child is between 3 and 5, take them to see a pediatric eye doctor. It is because, at this age, children are actively engaging in lots of activities and are likely to have problems with their eyesight. If they squint a lot when trying to look at something, rub their eyes frequently, or seem to need help reading, these could be signs that their vision could be more straightforward.
4. School Age Children (5+ Years Old)
School-aged children over five should have an eye exam with a pediatric eye doctor. If your child has difficulty focusing in school or cannot see clearly, it is time to schedule an eye appointment.
During an eye exam, the pediatric eye doctor will check your child’s vision levels, refractive errors, alignment, and overall eye health. The doctor may also use glasses to help correct the eye problem.
5. Teens and Young Adults
If teens or young adults experience frequent headaches or eyestrain with their vision, it’s time to visit a pediatric eye doctor. Teens and young adults should check their vision before participating in sports or activities requiring a good picture. Doctors also monitor the changes in vision during puberty, as the dramatic hormone fluctuations can unexpectedly cause vision atrophy.
Visit Pediatric Eye Doctor Today
Regular pediatric eye exams are essential for ensuring the health of your child’s eyes. Take them to see a pediatric eye doctor after they are born. Then you can revisit the doctor when they reach the toddler, pre-schooler, school-age, teen, and young adult stages.
Visiting an eye doctor is one of the best decisions you can make for your child’s long-term vision health!
Are you looking for more advice? Then, check out some of our other articles before you leave!
