For most children a proper evaluation might be adequate. However, if there is any family history of vision problems then an official eye exam may be the right thing to do. Even though there may not be any risk factors children need their eyes to be checked at an interval of every 6 months.
Did you know that experts say that children should get their first eye exam done before they can even walk? This will ensure that the development is natural. About 85% of what we experience and learn is through our eyes and hence we can very well understand its importance.
Research has shown that almost 60% of students who were problem learners were identified as children with undetected vision problems. Lazy eye syndrome is a common cause of impairment. However, the good news is that annual eye examinations can protect your child's vision, health and education.
Eye exams are painless and simple. Your optometrist will check all aspects of your vision to ensure they work properly. The eye exams will approximately take 15-20 minutes to complete. Early eye examinations are important because the children require basic visual skills for learning:
- Distance and near vision
- Eye teaming skills
- Eye movement skills
- Peripheral awareness
- Focusing skills
- Eye/Hand Coordination
Because of the importance of good vision for learning it is suggested that children entering pre-school get the eyes checked. No matter what age exams are essential to productivity and overall health.
An eye exam should include a few basic components:
Eye inspection: The optometrist inspects the eyes and its different parts like the lids, muscles and pupils. Sometimes the back of the eye is also examined.
Corneal light reflex testing: By using a small flashlight he/she will look at spots where light is reflected from the front part. The light ought to be in sharp focus and focused on both pupils. The result is abnormal if the light reflex is not clear and crisp or off-center.
Cover testing: This will detect any alignment problem with your child's eyes.
Visual acuity test: With the help of an eye chart, the examiner asks the child for reading different lines. Each eye is separately tested and for being sure that he is not peeking with the other eye.