Preparing Your Child for A Pediatric Eye Exam
Before your child begins school, you want to make sure that he or she can see correctly and is not suffering from any common conditions of the eye. Pediatric eye exams are so important because your child needs visual skills for maximum learning. Our eye doctors at Ingram Comprehensive Eye Care in Columbia, SC have the right tools to perform a complete evaluation of your child’s vision and eyes.
Best Time to Schedule an Exam
If you want your child's pediatric eye exam to be as productive as possible, consider choosing a time when he or she is happy. Children who are tired, cranky, or hungry will not cooperate as much during the appointment. Schedule a time when it doesn’t affect your child’s mealtime or nap.
Issues That You Need To Mention
Children with vision problems tend to show them differently than adults. If your child is experiencing any of the below problems, they need to be mentioned to your optometry professional.
- Excessive blinking
- Frequent eye rubbing
- Poor tracking skills
- A delay in motor development skills
What To Expect During Your Child's Eye Exam
During your child's pediatric eye exam, there are a few tests that your optometrist will perform.
- Visual Acuity Test: This test will determine how well your child can see at different distances. If your child knows his or her letters, your eye doctor will use a standard eye test. If not, your doctor will use a Tumbling E test.
- Pupil Test: This test determines how well your child’s pupils respond to light.
- Eye Movement Test: Your eye doctor will use a finger or a toy to see how well your child can follow moving objects with his or her eyes. It also determines how well your child's eyes work together.
If your optometry professional diagnosed your child with a condition that may require eye surgery, your doctor can refer you to an ophthalmologist.
Eye Care in Columbia, SC
If your child is having vision problems, it is essential to find out before he or she starts school. Schedule an appointment today with our doctors of optometry at Ingram Comprehensive Eye Care (803) 782-7080.