Making decisions about your child’s health can feel overwhelming, especially when it comes to their eyes. At Image Eyecare Optometry, we understand that parents want to do the right thing—but often don’t know when to start, what to expect, or how to tell if something’s wrong. Continue reading to discover how early eye care can help your child succeed both in and out of the classroom.
When to Schedule Their First Eye Exam
Many parents assume their child doesn’t need an eye exam until they can read. But according to Dr. Kim Nguyen, children should first see an eye doctor at around 6 months of age—especially if there are no signs of vision problems. The next recommended visit is around age five, just before school begins, and then once a year after that.
Annual exams are even more important now, Dr. Nguyen explains, because most schoolwork is done on screens. Children's vision tends to change faster than it used to, and catching those changes early is key.
How Eye Exams Work for Young Kids
If your toddler doesn’t know their letters yet, don’t worry. Eye exams for young children are designed to be age-appropriate. We use picture charts, number charts, or a “tumbling E” test—where kids point in the direction of the letter’s arms. These tools help us get accurate results, even if your child can’t yet read.
The exam also includes objective testing and observation to assess eye health and function without relying solely on your child’s responses.
Signs Your Child May Have a Vision Problem
Even if your child isn’t saying anything about their sight, that doesn’t mean everything is fine. Kids often don’t know what “normal” vision is supposed to look like. Dr. Nguyen often finds that children will claim to see just fine, even when they’re unable to read the largest letters on the chart.
Look for these common warning signs:
- Squinting
- Frequent eye rubbing
- Headaches after reading or screen time
- Holding books or tablets too close
- Sitting too close to the TV
- Getting sleepy easily during homework or reading
If you notice any of these behaviors, it’s time to schedule an exam.
How Screen Time and Genetics Impact Vision
These days, excessive screen time can accelerate the development of myopia (nearsightedness) in children. Extended near work—whether it's using a device or reading—can cause the eye to elongate and worsen vision over time.
Genetics also play a role. If both parents wear glasses, there’s a 25% chance their child will need them too. Even without a family history, your child may still be at risk, which is why regular exams are essential.
Why Annual Eye Exams Are So Important
A comprehensive pediatric eye exam does much more than check a prescription. Dr. Nguyen emphasizes that each exam includes a full evaluation of the retina, optic nerve, and blood vessels at the back of the eye. Conditions like retinal disease or optic nerve issues often have no symptoms until it’s too late.
Routine exams help catch these problems early—just like a yearly blood test can reveal hidden health issues before symptoms appear.
Are School Screenings Enough?
Short answer: no. School or pediatrician screenings only test basic distance vision using a chart. They do not examine the full structure of the eye or assess how well the eyes are working together. A comprehensive exam with an optometrist offers the complete picture of your child’s visual health.
Schedule Your Child’s Eye Exam in San Jose
Proactive vision care starts with one simple step: booking that first appointment. Image Eyecare Optometry offers friendly, professional care tailored to children at every stage of development. Whether it’s your child’s first eye exam or their annual check-up, we’re here to make the experience smooth, educational, and effective.
Visit us at 451 Blossom Hill Road, Ste 10, San Jose, CA 95123
Call (408) 227-0267 to book your child’s exam today
Your child deserves to see the world clearly. Let’s help them do just that—starting now.
