What Is the Recommended Age for Kids to Get an Eye Exam?

As parents, we keep a close eye on our children’s growth and development - but vision is one area that’s often overlooked until a problem becomes obvious. Clear, healthy vision plays a critical role in learning, social development, and overall confidence. Knowing when your child should have their first eye exam can help set them up for long-term visual success.

When Should Children Have Their First Eye Exam?

Most eye care professionals recommend that children receive a comprehensive eye exam before starting school, typically around age 5. This timing is important because vision problems can interfere with early reading, writing, and classroom learning - often without children realizing or being able to explain what’s wrong.

While pediatricians and schools may perform basic vision screenings, these checks are limited. A comprehensive eye exam goes much deeper, evaluating how well your child’s eyes focus, move, and work together, as well as checking overall eye health.

In some cases, children may need an exam earlier than age 5, especially if there is:

•           A family history of eye conditions

•           Noticeable eye crossing or drifting

•           Frequent eye rubbing or squinting

•           Delayed visual milestones

Common Eye Conditions in Children

Eye exams are essential for detecting conditions that may not be obvious to parents or teachers. Some of the most common childhood vision issues include:

•           Refractive errors - Nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism can make it difficult for children to see the board or read comfortably.

•           Amblyopia (lazy eye) - Reduced vision in one eye that can become permanent if not treated early.

•           Strabismus (eye turn) - Eyes that don’t align properly, which can affect depth perception and visual development.

•           Focusing or eye coordination problems - These can cause headaches, eye strain, or difficulty concentrating during schoolwork.

Early detection allows for effective treatment while a child’s visual system is still developing.

Why Annual Pediatric Eye Exams Matter

After the initial exam around age 5, annual pediatric eye exams are strongly recommended - even if no problems were found previously. Children’s eyes change quickly as they grow, and vision issues can develop between visits.

Regular exams help:

•           Monitor vision changes year over year

•           Ensure prescriptions remain accurate if glasses are needed

•           Support reading, learning, and classroom performance

•           Catch developing eye conditions early, when treatment is most effective

Children may not realize their vision is blurry or uncomfortable because they assume everyone sees the same way they do. Routine exams remove the guesswork and ensure their visual development stays on track.

Schedule Your Child’s Eye Exam Today

Early and consistent eye care helps detect common pediatric vision conditions, supports learning, and protects long-term eye health. Investing in routine eye exams now can make a lasting difference in your child’s future. We provide thorough pediatric eye exams in a comfortable, child-friendly environment.

Contact Advanced Vision Institute to schedule your child’s eye exam and give them the clear vision they need to thrive. Contact our Henderson or Summerlin office in Las Vegas, Nevada, by calling (702) 819-9800 to book an appointment today.