FAQ: Children's Vision
Our patients often ask questions about their children's eyes. The doctors at Memphis Family Vision and SEE Main Street do perform vision exams on children, usually from the age 5 and above. We also have a nice selection of children's eyewear in our optical dispensary. Here are some answers to frequently asked questions about Children's Vision.
How can I tell if my child has vision problems?
According to All About Vision, one in four school-age children have vision problems that can affect learning ability, personality and adjustment in school. Parents should be aware of these 10 signs that a child's vision needs correction:
- Consistently sitting too close to the TV or holding a book too close
- Losing their place while reading or using a finger to guide their eyes when reading
- Squinting or tilting the head to see better
- Frequent eye rubbing
- Sensitivity to light and / or excessive tearing
- Closing one eye to read, watch TV or see better
- Avoiding activities which require near vision, such as reading or homework, or distance vision, such as participating in sports
- Complaining of headaches or tired eyes
- Avoiding using a computer, because "it hurts my eyes"
- Receiving lower grades than usual
My pediatrician or school nurse does an eye exam on my child. Is that good enough?
A vision screening performed by your pediatrician or school nurse is not a comprehensive eye exam. These screenings are designed to alert parents to the possibility of a visual problem. They are helpful, but they can miss serious vision problems. Studies have found that up to 11% of children who pass a vision screening actually have a vision problem that needs treatment.
The best way to make sure your child has the visual skills they need to excel in and outside of the classroom is to schedule routine vision exams with one of our doctors at Memphis Family Vision and SEE Main Street.
Do your doctors perform pediatric eye exams and how often should they be tested?
The doctors at Memphis Family Vision and SEE Main Street usually see children right before they are ready to enter 1st grade, around the age of 5. If the child does not need prescription glasses at the time of the exam, we usually recommend that he/she comes back for another check-up in two years. If eyeglasses are prescribed, then an annual examination is necessary.
Is my child's vision exam covered under insurance?
Under the Affordable Care Act, many insurance plans cover children age 18 and under for routine vision examinations and eyeglasses or contact lenses. The best way to know for sure, though, is to check with your insurance provider prior to scheduling with our office.
