Common signs
- Sitting very close to the TV or screens
- Squinting or closing one eye
- An eye that turns in or out
- Trouble with reading or schoolwork
How we treat it
We check vision, eye alignment and eye health. A child does not need to read letters for the test. Drops may be used to relax focusing, so the glasses number can be measured properly.
Glasses help vision develop and sometimes help a squint.
What to expect
Before the visit
Bring old glasses, prescriptions and any school screening note. Ask reception if drops are likely.
Examination
The test is adapted to your child. If drops are used, we explain why.
Glasses and review
We explain when to wear the glasses and when to come back.
Common questions
Should we wait until our child can read an eye chart?
No. The test is adapted to age; a child can be checked before reading letters.
Is a school eye test enough?
No. A school eye test only picks out children who need a full check. If your child has symptoms or an eye turn, book a check-up anyway.
Do we need a child eye specialist?
Start with a check-up here. Our team sees children of all ages, and Dr. Samir Serasiya treats watering eyes and drooping eyelids in children.
Does a glasses prescription finish my child’s eye care?
Not always. Come back to check the vision, the glasses and any squint.
More reading: AAPOS: glasses for children
Sudden loss of vision, a curtain over your sight, severe pain or an eye injury: get urgent eye care.