When Should a Child Have Their First Eye Exam?
The Alberta Association of Optometrists recommends this schedule:
- 6 months: The first comprehensive eye exam should happen at six months. Optometrists can detect significant refractive errors, alignment problems, and congenital conditions even in infants.
- Age 3: A second exam before the preschool years checks for amblyopia (lazy eye), strabismus (crossed eyes), and developing visual skills.
- Age 5 to 6: Before starting school, a full eye examination ensures a child is visually ready to read and learn. Many children with uncorrected vision problems are mistakenly identified as having attention or learning difficulties.
- Annually from school age: Children’s prescriptions and visual demands change quickly. Book annual children’s eye exams in Edmonton to stay ahead of any changes.
Why School Vision Screenings Are Not Enough
School vision screenings test only basic distance visual acuity. What they do not check includes near vision and reading ability, eye tracking and focusing flexibility, binocular vision and eye teaming, colour vision, and early signs of eye disease. A child can pass every school screening and still have a significant vision problem. The only way to rule this out is a full examination with a licensed Edmonton optometrist.
Signs Your Child May Have a Vision Problem
Children often do not know what they see is abnormal. Watch for these signs:
- Sitting very close to screens or holding books close
- Frequent eye rubbing or blinking
- Tilting the head or covering one eye to see clearly
- Complaints of headaches, especially after reading
- Avoiding books or close work
- Losing their place while reading or using a finger to track text
- Noticeable eye turn or misalignment
If you notice any of these, do not wait for the next scheduled exam. Book an appointment with an Edmonton optometrist promptly.
What Happens During a Children’s Eye Exam at Eyes On Optometry
Pediatric eye exams are tailored to each child’s age and cooperation level. For infants and toddlers, optometrists use specialized techniques that do not require reading letters or verbal responses. For older children, the exam follows a similar structure to an adult examination with a relaxed, unhurried pace. A full children’s eye exam typically covers visual acuity, refraction, eye alignment, eye movement, internal eye health, and colour vision screening.
Is a Children’s Eye Exam Covered in Alberta?
Yes. Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan covers one comprehensive eye exam per year for all children under 19 at no cost. Bring your Alberta Health Care card to the appointment.
What If My Child Needs Glasses?
Most children adapt quickly once they can see clearly. Frames designed specifically for children are more durable, flexible, and comfortable than adult frames. See our range of prescription glasses in Edmonton to get a sense of what is available for younger patients.
Book a Children’s Eye Exam in Edmonton
Eyes On Optometry provides pediatric eye care in a calm, child-friendly environment. Early detection makes a real difference in vision development and school performance. Contact us to book your child’s eye exam in Edmonton today.
Also useful: our guide on eye exams in North Edmonton if you are looking for a conveniently located optometrist for your family.