Why Do Babies Need Regular Vision Health Exams?

As a parent, you know what it takes to keep your children healthy, but many find themselves asking “When do my kids need their first eye exam?” Don’t worry; you aren’t the first to ask. In fact, the answer may surprise you.

The Importance of Vision

According to the American Optometric Association (AOA), about 25% of all school aged children have vision problems. Identifying and treating these problems is essential to allowing your child to reach their full potential. In both academics and sports, children rely on their ability to focus, process, and react to the information provided to them. In order to maximize their performance, they need to have regular eye exams beyond the occasional school screening.

Infant Vision Development

At birth, babies can only see very close objects and differentiate between high contrast colors such as black and white or red and blue. They also aren’t born with the ability to focus their eyes or move them naturally. These are skills that must be developed over time. During the first six months of life, babies change constantly, so they need to be monitored carefully, especially with their vision. If minor conditions are left untreated, they could become more serious in the future.

Their First Eye Exam

At six months, your baby is ready for their first eye exam! Accent Eye Care is a proud supporter and founder of the InfantSEE program in Arizona, so you can bring your child under the age of one for a one time no charge initial assessment. We check for signs of slow development, like lack of focus or coordination. We also diagnose conditions such as Lazy Eye, Strabismus, Ptosis, and nearsightedness so that we can begin treatment as soon as possible. Minor conditions like crossed eyes may seem insignificant, but they can lead to sever vision issues and possibly blindness if left untreated.