Did you know 80% of your child’s learning is visual?

Eye exams for children are important to ensure your child’s eyes are healthy. It’s also important because children need accurate focusing skills, accurate eye teaming skills, accurate eye movement skills, and excellent visual acuity at all distances for optimal learning.

According to the Canadian Association of Optometrist (CAO), children should have their first eye exam at 6 months of age. Then children should have additional eye exams at age 3 and once a year after that.

Parents who prepare their children for eye exams can make all the difference. Your child’s first visit to see the optometrist doesn’t have to be scary. In addition, remember to choose a time when your child is usually alert and happy.

Here are 5 tips for preparing your child for their first eye exam:

1. Tell them a story

Let your child know how the eye exam will be like. Explain that he or she will be asked to look at letters, shapes, and pictures.

2. Give them a virtual tour

Give your child a virtual tour to get to know the practice. Many optometrist have websites with images or videos of the office and exam room.

3. Give choices

Let your child choose their glasses because they’ll be more likely to wear them. You should pre-select a rage of prescription glasses you’d be comfortable with.

4. Keep your cool

You should keep your cool if you’re not okay with the prescription glasses your child has chosen. Offer other choices rather than getting upset because your child can sense your frustration.

5. Explain the optometrist’s orders

Explain the optometrist’s orders to your child so they understand their role in following through on their eyewear responsibilities.

About New Optical Palace

New Optical Palace is your Optician and Optometrist in the Kitchener and Waterloo Area. We offer eye exams for adults and children and a wide selection of prescription glasses for your prescription, contact lenses, and sunglasses.