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Over 80% Of What Your Child Learns in School is Presented Visually. When Was Their Last Eye Exam?

When it comes to their eyes, kids really struggle articulating challenges that they face. As adults it seems natural that we would reach out to a professional if our vision was getting blurry around the edges, but a child may not know anything different. A comprehensive eye exam is the best way to have a clear and accurate perspective on the state of your child’s ocular health.

One in Four Children Require Corrective Lenses

25% of school-age kids need corrective lenses. With the prevalence of smartphones, tablets, laptops, and other devices with screens attached to them, the rate of vision deficiency among children is increasing. We even see some kids about their digital eye strain.

Academic & Social Success Is Aided With Clear Vision

Since the vast majority of what your child will learn in school is presented visually, you’d be surprised how many once-struggling children thrive once they wear corrective lenses. Many people are surprised by this fact- we think it makes perfect sense. Imagine the difficulty in learning and understanding something completely new without being able to clearly see it.

Vision Therapy For Children

Young children and infants are the most likely to require vision therapy. Vision therapy – a series of tests, exercises, and equipment worn to improve visual acuity – is an effective non-surgical way to correct strabismus (eye turn) and accommodation (focusing) problems.

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“My father has a complicated vision history and is an overall challenging case. The staff at Dittman Eyecare always goes above and beyond to provide the most professional, efficient and progressive care to optimize my father’s vision. Dr. Dittman provides thorough care with the most up to date treatment options. He and his staff treat patients and their family members with the utmost respect. We always leave this office feeling listened to and heard. Top notch in all aspects!”

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When Was Your Child’s Last Eye Exam?

If it has been more than a year since your child’s last eye exam, please request an appointment to schedule one for a day and time of your convenience.
More Information About Eye Exams for Kids

How often should kids have their eyes examined?

Kids should have eye exams at the following intervals:

  • Their first eye exam at six months
  • Second eye exam at three years
  • Third eye exam before kindergarten
  • Annually thereafter

What pediatric eye exams are assessing

Many school eye or vision screenings test only Acuity-Distance (clarity of sight in the distance). A child’s comprehensive eye examination should include testing of the following visual skills, all of which are important aspects of normal, healthy human vision:

  • Distance Vision: visual acuity (clarity) at 20 feet distance.
  • Near Vision: visual acuity for short distance (specifically, reading distance).
  • Stereopsis: binocular depth perception.
  • Focusing Skills: the ability of the eyes to maintain clear vision at varying distances.
  • Eye Tracking and Fixation Skills: the ability of the eyes to look at and accurately follow an object; this includes the ability to move the eyes across a sheet of paper while reading, etc.
  • Binocular Vision or Fusion: the ability to use both eyes together at the same time.
  • Convergence and Eye Teaming Skills: the ability of the eyes to aim, move and work as a coordinated team.
  • Color Vision: the ability to differentiate colors

Eye conditions common in kids

While your child may not need to worry about age-related macular degeneration (AMD) or cataracts, we do need to remain vigilant and attentive to their eye care. Conditions common in kids:

  • Myopia (aka nearsightedness) – Difficulty seeing in the distance is one of the most common conditions requiring glasses. Myopia typically appears around the age of nine or ten and in its early stages often does not need correction.
  • Hyperopia (aka farsightedness) – Hyperopia may cause blurring at near distances, however some amount of hyperopia is normal in children. Therefore, glasses may not be necessary. If the farsightedness is associated with crossing of the eyes (strabismus), glasses may help straighten the alignment of the eyes.
  • Astigmatism – When the eye is out of focus because the cornea or the front surface of the eye is not perfectly round. Glasses can easily compensate for this distortion
  • Amblyopia – Reduced vision in an eye that results from misalignment of the eyes, a need for glasses, or disruption of light passing through the eye. This generally responds well to treatment if recognized during preschool years.
  • Strabismus – A misalignment of the eyes. An eye may be turned inward (esotropia), outward (exotropia), upward (hypertropia), or downward (hypotropia). The misalignment may be constant or intermittent. Treatment may include eyeglasses, prisms, surgery, Botox injections, or eye-patching therapy.
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