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As a parent, ensuring your child’s overall health includes paying attention to their vision. Eye exams are vital in detecting early vision problems, which is important in their development and academic performance. As one of the best pediatric eye doctors in Tampa, our team at Florida Eye Center has the following resource to guide you on when your child should receive their first eye exam.
The American Optometric Association (AOA) recommends that a child’s first comprehensive eye exam should occur at 6 months old. This early assessment helps identify any potential issues that could affect their vision development. Children’s eyes change rapidly during their early years, so an exam at this stage ensures any problems are caught and addressed promptly.
After the initial exam, we recommend children have their eyes checked again at 3 years old. At this age, they can participate in vision tests better and the exam can provide a clearer picture of their visual development. After 3, the next recommended check is around 5 or 6 years old, right before they start school. This ensures your child’s vision is optimal for learning.
While routine eye exams are crucial, certain signs might indicate the need for an earlier visit to a pediatric eye doctor in Tampa. These include:
If you notice any of these signs, it is important to consult with an eye care professional sooner than the routine schedule to ensure you are addressing any potential issues with your child’s vision.
Following the initial eye exams, the frequency of follow-up eye exams depends on the child’s eye health and existing conditions. Generally, after age 6, children should have their eyes checked every one to two years. However, more frequent evaluations might be necessary if your child has vision issues or conditions like amblyopia (lazy eye) or strabismus (crossed eyes). Regular check-ups ensure that any vision changes are monitored and managed effectively.
Selecting the right eye doctor in Tampa is essential for your child’s health. A pediatric eye doctor in Tampa is often a good choice for routine eye exams and vision correction. If your child has more complex eye health issues or there are concerns about visual development, consulting a pediatric ophthalmologist may be beneficial. At Florida Eye Center, we specialize in both and are ready to serve your child from the first eye exam and beyond.
Disclaimer: The contents of this website are for general educational purposes only. All content and media on the Florida Eye Center website does not constitute professional medical advice nor is the information intended to replace the services provided by the medical professionals at Florida Eye Center or other qualified medical professionals. If you believe you are having a medical emergency, call 911 immediately.
The content, views, and opinions communicated on this website do not represent the views of Florida Eye Center. Reliance on any information provided by this website is solely at your own risk. Although this website contains links to other medical websites, this is strictly for informational purposes. Florida Eye Center is not responsible nor do they approve of the content featured on any third party linked websites referenced on this website.
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