When you take your baby for their medical checkups, your pediatrician will likely recommend making an appointment with an eye doctor. The American Optometry Association recommends that babies have their first eye exam at six months, followed by exams when they are about three years old and again before starting school. These early visits are mostly preventative and focused on ensuring that your baby’s eyes and vision are healthy. Below, learn when to take your child to the eye doctor. 

Why Early Exams Are Important 

Given that an infant cannot yet read or speak, you might be wondering how a six-month-old would receive an eye exam. Your pediatrician will do a limited exam of your baby’s eyes, checking alignment, how they respond to light, and the appearance of the eyes, but a visit to an eye doctor is more in-depth. The eye doctor will discuss your family history and evaluate your baby’s eye health and conduct tests to ensure their vision is developing properly. Problems at this age aren’t common, but if there is something of concern, the doctor will discuss treatment options with you. 

The first visit with the eye doctor is also educational. The doctor will discuss your child’s eye health and ways to help your baby develop healthy vision. You’ll also discuss what to watch out for and when to call the doctor. As your child gets older and has exams as a toddler and preschooler, they will become more involved with the process by reading the charts and letting the doctor know what they can and cannot see. 

What to Expect at an Eye Doctor Appointment 

The best time to make an eye doctor appointment is when your child is awake and alert. Avoid scheduling a visit during nap time, or right before nap time, as that can mean a cranky and uncooperative patient. Bring a favorite toy along, as the doctor will be able to check your baby’s eyes while they play. The actual exam will include a conversation about family history and any concerns you have. They will look at your baby’s eyes with a pen flashlight for any physical problems and test their eye movement. 

The final part of the exam involves darkening the room to dilate your baby’s pupils so that the doctor can check inside the eyes. Each eye is checked individually and then together to look for certain reflexes. Problems are rare, but if your doctor has concerns, they will discuss any follow-ups or treatment recommendations.  

If your little one needs an eye exam, make an appointment with the office of Dr. Ron Sealock in Dothan, AL. This team is committed to providing excellent eye care for the entire family in a comfortable and relaxed environment. They offer scans that don’t involve dilation, meaning that patients of all ages can get a comprehensive eye exam without any discomfort or downtime. For an appointment, call (334) 793-9607 or visit their website today.