Dr. William De La Peña and the De La Peña Eye Clinic provide optometric, ophthalmological, and optical services for adults and children. One question often asked by new parents is when they should schedule their children’s first eye exam. Many parents are surprised to learn that eye screenings should begin as soon as a child is born in order to detect any problems early and have the best chance of treating them effectively. According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, exams are recommended at the following ages:
Newborn: A trained health professional, such as an ophthalmologist or family doctor, should conduct a basic examination on the eyes of newborns, including a “red reflex” test, to ensure that the eyes are functioning normally.
6 months to a year: A second screening should be administered between the ages of 6 and 12 months.
Ages 3 to 3 1/2: Around this time, a child should undergo a more comprehensive assessment of their vision and eye alignment. The screening can help to detect problems such as misaligned eyes, refractive errors, and other focusing problems.
School age: A child starting school should have another screening for visual acuity and alignment, particularly as nearsightedness, or myopia, is a common refractive error in this age group. In addition, children of any age should have a screening whenever a vision problem is suspected.
