When should kids have their first eye exam?

As a dad with young kids at home, I certainly can empathize with the craziness of parenthood. Knowing when to get your kids in for their first eye exam may not be at the top of your mind. However, there are important eye issues to have evaluated early on in your new baby’s eyes to avoid permanent vision complications in the future.  Your baby’s first eye exam is recommended to be between 6 months and 12 months old. Dr. Klocke and I are members of the American Optometric Association and participate in the program InfantSEE. This is a no-cost eye exam for infants aged 6-12 months.

At your infant’s eye exam, we will use a device called a retinoscope, with which we can shine a light in your child’s eyes and measure if there are any glasses needed. We will also measure to make sure there are no eye misalignments that need to be corrected to allow your child’s eyes to develop properly. Dilating eye drops will be used to get a full comprehensive health check of the front and back of your child’s eyes as well. There is a critical period of eye development starting at birth up to 9 years old where, if complications are not treated, permanent vision issues will remain.

We believe in healthy eyes and healthy vision for a lifetime, and we would love to take care of your new baby’s eye health and vision.

Side note: We do have complimentary coffee at our clinic for any sleep deprived parents, so don’t forget to get an espresso while you’re here for your exam.