Children often receive their first eye exams at ages three and five, and if you’re preparing for one, do what you can to ease their nerves. New experiences can be intimidating, and you don’t want anxiety to interfere with their appointment. Here are helpful tips you can start using, so they build a healthy relationship with their eye care professional.

How to Get Your Child Ready for an Eye Exam

1. Explain What to Expect

Let your little one know what will happen to minimize their uncertainty. Easing anxiety will help them open up, so start the conversation weeks in advance. Explain that the eye doctor is a friend who will check their vision to make sure they see well. Tell them that the check involves reading letters of various sizes from a distance, so the doctor can assess their eye strength. Let your child know that none of these tests are painful and that there’s nothing to be scared about.

2. Practice at Home

Purchasing a toy eye care set is an excellent way to introduce your little one to the optometrist. Play with the set at home and take turns being the patient and doctor. This will help them get a better idea of what to expect.

3. Find Comfort Items

Comfort items can help keep children calm, so let them pick out a few to bring with them. A stuffed animal, small blanket, or doll are excellent items to bring along because they won’t make noise or get in the way. Always check with the eye care team before bringing a comfort object to ensure it’s appropriate. Additionally, you can load games or movies onto your smartphone to distract them in the waiting room before the appointment. Collectively, these should make your child feel more relaxed and safe.

If it’s time for your child’s first exam, contact the team at Kato & Shoji Optometrists in Honolulu, HI. These professionals will take the time to explain to your child what will happen and provide friendly guidance throughout the appointment. If your little one needs glasses, they can have fun trying on frames until they choose one they like. For more information about their services, visit the website or call (808) 735-8080. You can also connect with the team on Facebook to receive more eye care tips.