Vision plays a big role in your child’s development—from learning at school to enjoying playtime with friends. If you’re wondering whether your child’s vision is on track, you’re in the right place!
Let’s chat about the guidelines for children’s vision tests and everything else you need to know about eye exams and glasses.
Why Regular Vision Tests Are Important
You might think your child’s vision is fine if they’re not complaining, but often kids don’t realize they’re not seeing as clearly as they should. Vision problems can develop slowly, and kids may adapt without saying a word. That’s why regular eye exams are so important. Things can often change in the blink of an eye (pun intended!)
When Should Kids Get Eye Exams?
The BC Doctors of Optometry website suggests that your child’s first comprehensive eye exam should happen as early as between six and nine months old. Then annual exams are recommended between ages two and 19 years of age.
Eye exams aren’t just about reading an eye chart. Optometrists also check for things like eye alignment, depth perception and colour vision, as well as any underlying health issues. Catching problems like a lazy eye, crossed eyes or nearsightedness early can make a huge difference in your child’s success and confidence.
What to Do If You’re Concerned
Sometimes it’s tricky to know if your child is struggling with their vision, but if you notice any of the following signs, don’t wait—book an eye exam! Optometrists are experts in figuring out what’s going on and can help get things back on track.
• Squinting, covering one eye or tilting their head to see better.
• Complaining about headaches or saying their eyes hurt.
• Holding books or screens close to their face.
• Losing their place while reading or having trouble focusing on visual tasks.
• Avoiding activities like reading, drawing or puzzles.
• Showing frustration or a drop in confidence at school.
Eye Exam Coverage for Kids
The Medical Services Plan (MSP) covers most, if not all, of the cost of kid’s eye exams up to the age of 18, depending on the clinic and exam. You may have extended benefits through work or personal benefit plans, and these will likely cover the portion of eye exams that isn’t covered by MSP. But if you don’t have extended care, or your coverage is low, you may wish to investigate the Healthy Kids program.
Healthy Kids helps families with low incomes by covering basic health needs, including vision care, for children under 19 who qualify for MSP premium assistance. It covers one routine eye exam per year and partial coverage for prescription glasses.
Choosing the Right Eye Care Professional
The BC Optometrist Society’s website is a fantastic resource for finding trusted professionals near you. Always look for someone who has the following qualities:
• Experience with Kids: Make sure they’re licensed and comfortable working with children.
• Kid-Friendly Environment: A welcoming, stress-free clinic can help your child feel relaxed during their visit.
• Comprehensive Services: Ensure the office offers full care, which includes checking eye health, visual skills and fitting glasses if needed.
• Clear Communication: They should explain everything in a way you both and your child can understand.
Helping Your Child Adjust to Glasses
If your child needs glasses, they might feel a little unsure about it at first. Here’s how you can help:
• Let Them Pick: Choosing their own frames can make wearing glasses more exciting.
• Start Slow: If they’re hesitant, let them wear their glasses for short periods and gradually increase the time. This can help ease the adjustment process.
• Offer Lots of Praise: Ensure everyone in the family celebrates how great they look and reminds them how awesome it is to take care of their eyes.
• Encourage Consistency: Help them wear their glasses as prescribed so their eyes can adjust and get the full benefit.
• Set a Good Example: If you wear glasses, show them how normal (and cool!) it is to wear them properly.
It’s also important to teach them how to care for their glasses. Simple tips like using both hands to take them off, keeping them in a case and cleaning them using only a microfibre cloth will go a long way.
Your child’s vision is such an important part of their growth and happiness, and regular eye exams are a key to keeping it in check. Even if you didn’t realize kids need eye exams until reading this (don’t worry, you’re not the only one!), or if it’s slipped your mind and you’ve skipped a few exams (again, you’re not alone!), there’s no time like the present to get back on track.
Learn more at healthlinkbc.ca.
