Clear Vision Is Essential for Children’s Growth
When it comes to the development of children, their eyes are an important part of that growth. Children’s eyesight actually assists in their development in other areas and about 80% of what children learn is through their vision.
Our comprehensive eye exams for children allow us to see how their vision is progressing, and if there are any vision problems that need correction.
Book an eye exam for your child at Bluewater Optometry to get started.
Children’s Eye Exam Frequency
Since children develop at a faster rate than adults, they often need eye exams more frequently. To examine their eye health and growth properly, the recommended exam frequency is:
- Their first exam between 6–9 months old
- At least 1 exam between 2–5 years old
- Yearly exams between 6–19 years old
Please note that this is a guideline to follow, but your doctor will recommend an eye exam frequency depending on your child’s vision risks.
It is important to note that OHIP will cover the cost of a yearly exam for children 19 years and under if required.
Myopia Control for Children
A common eye condition that can present itself in childhood is myopia. Myopia, more commonly known as nearsightedness, is when objects up close can be seen clearly but become blurry in the distance.
During a children’s eye exam, myopia can be detected and myopia control treatment methods such as myopia control spectacles, specialized contact lenses, or eye drops, and more can be discussed.
Myopia control is important to start in childhood as it can help slow down the progression of myopia and lessen the risk of vision threatening disease in adulthood.
Vision, Learning, & Development
Your child’s vision is tied to many different skills associated with their development, especially for school-aged children, such as:
- Reading
- Seeing the board in class
- Participating in class
- Concentration
- Playing with other children
- Sports performance
Vision impairment can make any of these everyday activities harder for children and can lead to symptoms such as fatigue or headaches. Staying on track with regular eye exams can help detect vision issues in children before it affects their growth and development.
Children’s Vision Signs to Look Out For
If you think your child may be experiencing vision problems, there are some signs that may point to conditions such as myopia, amblyopia, strabismus, or just a need for vision correction. These include:
- Watery eyes
- Rubbing eyes frequently
- Blinking more often
- Light sensitivity
- Squinting when looking at objects
- Tilting head or covering one eye to focus
- Placing objects close up to the eye
- Poor hand-eye coordination
- Handwriting, spelling, or reading skills not at an expected level
- Poor depth perception
The Eye See…Eye Learn Program
Bluewater Optometry is proud to participate in the Eye See…Eye Learn program. This provincially administered government program is designed to ensure that all junior kindergarten children in Ontario can get a comprehensive eye exam with a local, participating optometrist before they begin grade 1. The cost of the exam is covered by OHIP.
Children that need glasses are provided with a pair in their prescription free of charge. Contact our team today to learn more.
Book an Eye Exam for Your Child
Visit our practice for your child’s next eye exam and help keep their vision, learning, and development on track. Book an appointment below.
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More of Our Services
Explore the different eye care services we have to offer at Bluewater Optometry.
Laser Eye Surgery Consultations
Our team is with you every step of the way during your laser eye surgery journey. A consultation is the first step to exploring your options, like LASIK and PRK. We provide co-management for your pre and post-operative care with your surgical team.
Eye Disease Diagnosis & Management
Eye disease can come in different forms, like cataracts, glaucoma, and age-related macular degeneration. Our office helps diagnose and manage the different forms of eye disease. Learn more about how we can help.
Emergency Eye Care
An eye emergency can happen at any moment, and we want to provide you with support. If you or a loved one has an eye emergency, please don’t hesitate to contact us at 226-784-2210.
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Come Visit Us
You can find us on the corner of Exmouth Street and Napier Street, right across from Norm Perry Park.
Our Address
- 251 Exmouth Street
- Sarnia, ON N7T 5M7
Contact Information
- Phone: 519-336-4544
- Email: [email protected]
