How Often Should Your Child Have an Eye Exam? A Timeline for Parents

As children grow, their vision plays a critical role in how they explore the world, learn in school, and interact with others. Yet many parents are unsure about when to start eye exams or how often they should occur. Here’s a helpful guide to understanding when your child should have an eye exam and why each stage matters.
 

Why Early Eye Care Matters

Early eye care is essential because many vision problems begin without obvious symptoms. Conditions can develop in early childhood and may go unnoticed without a comprehensive eye exam. When detected early, these issues are often more easily treated and less likely to lead to long-term vision impairment. Proper visual development is closely tied to learning, motor skills, and overall growth, making early detection a key factor in supporting your child’s academic and social success.
 

Toddler Years

Between the ages of 1 and 3, your child should have at least an examination to monitor proper eye alignment and visual development. This is a time of rapid growth, and keeping an eye on visual milestones helps ensure your child is seeing clearly and comfortably.
 

Preschool

Before starting school, your child should have another comprehensive eye exam at age 5 for 6. At this age, kids begin using their eyes more for fine motor tasks, reading readiness, and interactive play. Detecting issues like farsightedness early can make a big difference in their school readiness and confidence.
 

Annually Thereafter

Once your child begins school, regular annual eye exams are essential. Even if no vision issues are initially detected, yearly exams help ensure that their vision stays on track as they grow and their visual demands increase. If your child wears glasses or contacts, or shows signs of vision problems these exams become even more important to catch changes early.
 

Signs Your Child May Need an Eye Exam Sooner

Even if your child is not due for a routine exam, watch for signs that they may need to see an optometrist sooner. These include:

• Complaints of blurry vision or eye discomfort

• Difficulty focusing on schoolwork

• Excessive eye rubbing or tearing

• Avoiding reading or close-up tasks
 

A Personalized Approach at Optic Gallery

Staying on top of your child’s eye exam schedule is one of the simplest ways to support their learning, development, and overall health. Every child is unique, and their eye care should be too. At Optic Gallery, we provide personalized pediatric eye care based on your child’s needs and development. We are experienced in working with children of all ages and creating a welcoming, comfortable environment for your family.

Schedule your child’s next eye exam at Optic Gallery and give them the gift of clear, healthy vision for every stage of life. Visit our offices located in Las Vegas, Henderson, Reno, Sparks, and Pahrump Nevada, or request your appointment online at www.opticgallery.com