Why Eye Exams Are Essential for Kids’ Vision

Posted on February 7, 2020 in Vision Health

*Updated August 2024 

You know to visit the dentist twice a year for preventive check-ups, but did you know that annual comprehensive eye exams are equally as important for kids’ vision?

Approximately 6.8 percent of children in the United States have been diagnosed with a vision or eye condition, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). However, children with undiagnosed vision problems may be suffering in silence from side effects like headaches, short attention spans, fatigue, difficulty in school, and more.

It’s important to visit an eye doctor for a comprehensive exam (not just a vision screening) every year to protect your kids’ vision and detect and treat any problems early.

Eye exams are vital for kid’s vision and eye health

Comprehensive eye exams are essential for children, and it’s important to note that this type of eye exam is different from a vision screening. During the exam, an eye doctor will observe things such as visual acuity, visual function and eye health, the curvature of the cornea, and refraction. They will also document the vision health of your children to track if anything changes over time.

Regular exams can help spot early warning signs of more serious overall health conditions, although this is not typically common for young children. An eye doctor can detect signs of hypertension, cardiovascular disease, and diabetes. They also check for things like cataracts, glaucoma, macular degeneration, and other vision concerns.

Eye exams help improve kids’ vision

Eye exams are your chance to learn exactly how well—or not well—your child can see. It’s common for someone to think they have perfect eyesight right up until they get a pair of glasses or contact lenses. This is especially true for children, as they might not realize they are experiencing vision issues. 

Getting into an eye doctor early can help reduce the time spent squinting and struggling to see while offering a chance to get the proper vision correctors if needed.

Protect your kids’ vision with annual eye exams

The American Optometric Association recommends that infants should have an initial eye exam between six and 12 months of age. Preschoolers, aged three to five, should be seen at least once. When a child enters school, or at about six years of age, annual exams are encouraged.

If you suspect a vision injury or potential loss of eyesight, or your child complains about blurred vision, visit your provider as soon as possible.

Vision insurance from Delta Dental of Iowa helps keep eyes healthy

Delta Dental of Iowa offers DeltaVision plans for individuals and for employers. These plans cover exams, frames, contact lenses, and laser correction procedures, as well as offer discounts on lenses at participating providers.

Find a DeltaVision provider.

Interested in learning more about DeltaVision? Click here.

Curious about eye health? Check out this blog for more information.