As parents, we do everything we can to give our children a healthy start in life — from regular checkups to balanced meals and plenty of sleep. But one area that often gets overlooked is children’s eye health. Clear vision is critical for learning, development, and confidence, yet many parents are unsure when their child should first see an eye doctor.

At Allen Eyecare Center, Dr. Brandon Igo shares expert insight on the best timeline for kids’ eye exams, early warning signs parents should watch for, and how to protect children’s eyesight from problems like myopia (nearsightedness).

The First Eye Exam: Start at 6 Months

It may surprise many parents, but the first eye exam is recommended at six months of age. This initial visit is usually done with a pediatric optometrist or ophthalmologist. The goal is to:

• Check for significant differences in prescription between the eyes

• Detect early conditions like eye turns (strabismus) or congenital cataracts

• Establish a baseline for visual health and development

Even if no issues are visible, early exams can catch problems that are much harder to correct later. As Dr. Igo notes: “It’s always better safe than sorry.”

When to Bring Kids to Allen Eyecare Center

While specialized pediatric eye doctors handle infant exams, Allen Eyecare Center typically begins seeing children around ages 4–5. This is a crucial stage as kids are preparing for school and need clear vision for reading, writing, and classroom learning.

Did you know? Some children are misdiagnosed with attention issues like ADHD when, in reality, they simply can’t see clearly. A basic eye exam can be life-changing.

By scheduling a check-up before kindergarten, parents can ensure their child is ready to succeed in the classroom.

Red Flags Parents Shouldn’t Ignore

Not every child will tell you they can’t see well — but their behavior often reveals clues. Common signs your child may need an eye exam include:

• Crossing or turning of the eyes

• One eye appearing brighter than the other in photos

• Avoiding coloring, books, or other near work

• Complaints of headaches, especially after reading

• Sitting too close to the TV or squinting often

• Tilting or turning the head to see better

If you notice any of these red flags, schedule an exam as soon as possible.

Why Myopia Is on the Rise in Children

Children today spend more time indoors on screens and less time outdoors. This shift has contributed to the rapid rise of myopia (nearsightedness), where the eye grows too long and distant objects become blurry.

Fortunately, treatments like myopia management can slow progression, protecting your child’s long-term vision. Early detection is key — once myopia progresses, it cannot be reversed.

What to Expect at a Child’s First Exam With Us

For young children, exams are designed to be comfortable and fun. At Allen Eyecare Center, we tailor each visit based on the child’s age and ability. Parents can expect:

• Prescription testing for glasses if needed

• Retinal imaging (Optomap) to detect subtle changes year to year

• Eye movement and focusing checks to catch coordination issues

• Color vision testing, especially for families with a history of color deficiency

Even if your child doesn’t yet know letters, we use pictures, numbers, or the tumbling E test to accurately measure vision. Our doctors are patient, encouraging, and skilled at helping kids feel at ease.

And yes — if glasses are needed, our team makes it a positive milestone! We even celebrate with a “first pair of glasses” photo to capture the big moment.

Key Takeaways for Parents

• Schedule the first pediatric eye exam at 6 months

• Bring children to Allen Eyecare Center around ages 4–5, before school begins

• Watch for warning signs like eye turns, squinting, or avoiding close-up tasks

• Ask about myopia prevention and management if your child is nearsighted

• Make vision care a positive experience to build trust and confidence

👓 Is your child ready for their first eye exam? Our caring team at Allen Eyecare Center is here to help. Schedule today: https://www.alleneyecarecenter.info/request-appointment.html