The Eye Clinic4 min read
Children often don't realise their vision isn't normal — it's all they've ever known. That's why regular checks matter, and why picking up a problem early can make a real difference.
When to have their eyes checked
Newborns are checked at birth and at Well Child visits, and most children have a vision screen before they start school. Beyond that, have their eyes tested with your optometrist if you notice a problem, if there's a family history of eye conditions, or simply every couple of years to be safe.
Signs to watch for
Because children rarely complain, watch the behaviour instead: sitting very close to the TV or a screen, squinting or tilting the head, holding books close, frequent eye-rubbing, or headaches. A wandering or turned eye should always be checked promptly.
Why it matters — especially for short-sightedness
Short-sightedness (myopia) is becoming more common in children and tends to get worse as they grow. Picking it up early opens the door to myopia-control treatments that can slow how fast it progresses — protecting their eyes for the long term. Where a child's prescription is climbing quickly, this is something we can help with.
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