Most children see the eye doctor between ages 3-5. It’s an important health milestone, and you want to ensure it goes smoothly. Preparing a few weeks before can help your child feel confident about the appointment. Below are helpful tips to start using today.

How Can You Prepare Your Child for an Eye Exam?

1. Take Comfort Items

Comfort items and distractions will ease your child’s nerves. Ask what they’d like to bring to the eye appointment. A favorite action figure or stuffed animal will keep them occupied. You can also read books or listen to relaxing music on headphones in the waiting room. Call the optometrist’s office a few days in advance to get approval for items you want to bring.

2. Explain What Happens

Your child will be less anxious knowing what to expect. Explain that the eye doctor will test their vision. They’ll have your child read letters of different sizes from a distance to test their eye strength. Children will also have to follow a light to test their eye muscle response and coordination. Tell your child that there’s nothing to worry about and that the eye doctor is dedicated to keeping their eyes healthy.

3. Role Play

The biggest challenge for many children is having someone so close to their face during the exam. Prepare by role playing at home. Play first as the eye doctor and perform a basic exam. Have your children cover one eye and identify letters and numbers or follow your finger from side to side. Let them play as the eye doctor next. You’ll build positive associations with the exams.

If you’re ready to schedule your child’s first exam, contact the office of Dr. Brett J. Radow in Spencer, WV. This eye doctor welcomes patients of all ages and is committed to creating a welcoming office. He and his team provide corrective lenses, glaucoma and macular degeneration treatment, and more. Visit their website to explore their full scope of work and connect on Facebook for more health tips. You can speak with their staff by calling (304) 927-5112.