Children grow and change quickly. Make eye exams part of their yearly annual routine.
Good vision is important for your child’s development, learning and participation in activities. Vision problems are common in children, and the signs are not always easy for parents and caregivers to notice.
When should a child get an eye exam?
The Ontario Association of Optometrists recommends routine eye exams for children and youth up to age 19 to support healthy vision development. Book eye exams at these ages:
- At six months of age
- Between two to three years old
- Every year after age three
What is an eye exam?
An eye exam is a check-up with an optometrist (eye doctor). The eye doctor checks:
- How well your child can see with each eye
- How your child’s eyes are developing
- The health of your child’s eyes
- If there are eye problems that may need treatment
For more information about eye exams, visit the Canadian Association of Optometrists.
Why are eye exams important for children?
- Children may have a vision problem even when there are no obvious signs.
- Vision problems can affect learning and make it harder to see the classroom board or learn to read.
- Children may not know that they are not seeing clearly and may not tell you when something has changed.
- A child may see well with one eye and not realize there is a problem with the other.
- Finding eye problems early can allow for treatment before vision loss becomes permanent.
- Regular eye exams help monitor your child’s vision, eye development and eye health as they grow.
How do I find an optometrist?
You do not need a referral from a family doctor to see an optometrist.
To find an optometrist near you, use the list of optometrists on the College of Optometrists of Ontario’s website.
You can also contact Health811 for help finding health services.
What is the difference between a vision screening and an eye exam?
A vision screening is a quick check done by a trained screener who can help identify possible vision problems. It does not replace an eye exam.
An eye exam with an optometrist checks your child’s vision and eye health. It can also identify vision problems or eye conditions.
Even if vision screening does not find any concerns, it is still important for your child to have regular eye exams.
Does the health unit provide vision screenings or eye exams?
The health unit does not provide vision screenings or eye exams at this time.
Families and caregivers can book an eye exam directly with an optometrist. You do not need a referral.
Is there help with the cost of glasses?
Some programs may help eligible families pay for glasses.
Eye See…Eye Learn® (ESEL) Program
Students in junior and senior kindergarten can:
- Have an eye exam with a participating optometrist, covered by OHIP
- Receive one free pair of glasses if glasses are prescribed
Visit the Eye See…Eye Learn® website to learn more and find a participating optometrist.
Ontario Works and Ontario Disability Support Program
Families who receive Ontario Works (OW) or the Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP) may be able to get help paying for eyeglasses.
Talk to your caseworker for information about available vision care benefits.
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