children and their eyes

Although our eyes are fully-formed at birth, it takes a long time for these powerful tools to develop the skills we take for granted, like recognising each other. Newborn babies can't focus or see colours, but in their first year, their eyes will master the techniques of tracking and identifying moving objects.

Toddlers are constantly improving their hand-to-eye co-ordination and depth perception, and young children learn to read, write and play as their eyes become more able to interpret the world around them.

Because good eyesight is so vital for children, it's never too early to book them into the practice to see an optician for a full eye test. Even if they're too young to read, optometrists can still learn a great deal about your child's overall eye health and vision.

Regular eye tests are particularly vital for toddlers and young children because their eyes can develop a number of vision problems that could last a lifetime if left undiagnosed, even though successful treatment is often quick and easy. Although some conditions are obvious, such as a
squint, others can be impossible to spot without specialist equipment and medical training. It's important to remember that young children naturally assume their eyesight is normal, so things like blurred vision won't seem strange or unusual to them.

As well as organising family trips to the optician, you can help to identify sight related problems by watching out for symptoms like light sensitivity or sitting too close to TVs or books. Investigate any family history of eye-related diseases, because your children may be at higher risk of developing
these conditions.


Eye examinations are free on the NHS for children under 16 years of age and up to 18 years of age if they remain in full time education. We have a wide range of spectacles for all ages so book your children in by calling 01268 544646.

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