Eyesight is one of the most essential senses in a child’s development, shaping how they explore, learn, and interact with the world around them. As children grow, their eyesight also develops in distinct stages, each critical for building skills like depth perception, focus, and hand-eye coordination. Strong, healthy vision supports cognitive and physical growth and plays a pivotal role in academic performance, social interaction, and recreational activities.
Supporting healthy vision as a child grows is where paediatric eye care truly makes a difference. Routine eye exams not only track their visual progress but also catch potential issues early, providing the tools they need to protect their eyesight at every stage. By prioritising eye health, kids are able to explore, learn, and thrive with a clear vision, empowering them to reach their developmental milestones confidently and fully engaged.
In the following sections of this guide, you’ll learn everything you need to know about paediatric eye care, from understanding key stages of visual development to identifying signs of vision issues. You’ll learn the benefits of regular eye exams, preventive tips for maintaining eye health, and what to expect from common paediatric eye care services. Equipped with this information, you’ll be able to support your child’s visual health and ensure they have a strong vision for years to come.
Let’s get started.
Your Child’s Eye Health by Age
Each stage of a child’s life brings unique visual milestones and challenges. As they grow, children’s eyesight goes through various phases, from basic tracking as a newborn to more complex visual skills as they enter school and adolescence. Recognising what’s typical for each stage can help parents monitor their child’s eye health and make sure any issues are addressed early.
1. Newborns (0 to 2 Months)
During the first couple of months, a newborn’s vision is quite limited. At birth, infants can only see about 8 to 12 inches in front of them, primarily focusing on high-contrast objects, such as faces. Their eyes may appear to wander or cross, but this is normal as they develop muscle control. Over the first few weeks, you’ll notice that they start to track movements and respond to bright lights, indicating that their vision is beginning to improve. This is an ideal time to introduce visual stimulation, such as brightly coloured toys and simple patterns, to promote visual development.
2. Babies (2 to 24 Months)
As your baby grows, their eyesight develops rapidly. By around 2 to 3 months, most infants can see across the room, and their eyes should begin to work together more effectively, reducing any initial cross-eyed appearance. Around 6 months, babies typically achieve better depth perception and can see in full colour. By this stage, it’s essential to engage them with a variety of visual experiences. Reading picture books, playing with toys that have different shapes and colours, and spending time outdoors can enhance their visual skills. Regular eye check-ups are also recommended to catch any potential issues early.

1. Toddlers (2 to 6 Years)
Toddlers are curious explorers, and their vision plays a significant role in their development. During this period, they refine their eye-hand coordination, essential for tasks such as drawing, stacking blocks, and catching balls. By age 3, children should have 20/40 vision or better, and most eye conditions become apparent during this time. It’s important to observe for signs of vision problems, such as squinting, covering one eye, or difficulty focusing on objects. Encouraging outdoor play and activities that require depth perception, like throwing a ball, can help strengthen their visual skills. Routine eye exams are crucial during this stage to detect issues like amblyopia (lazy eye) or strabismus (crossed eyes).
2. School Age (7 to 12 Years)
As children enter school, their visual skills are critical for learning and social interactions. This age group typically experiences significant growth in visual acuity, and by age 6 or 7, many children achieve 20/20 vision. However, academic pressures may lead to extended screen time, which can strain their eyes. Eye exams during these years are vital, as many children may face refractive errors like nearsightedness or farsightedness. Parents should encourage healthy screen habits, such as the 20-20-20 rule—taking a 20-second break every 20 minutes to look at something 20 feet away. Ensuring a balance between screen time and outdoor activities can help protect their eye health.
3. Teenagers (13 to 17 Years)
During the teenage years, eye health can be influenced by lifestyle choices, such as diet and screen time. Adolescents may experience changes in their vision due to growth spurts or increased screen use. By this stage, they may develop a preference for contact lenses or glasses, particularly if they are involved in sports. It’s essential to educate teenagers on proper eye care, including the importance of UV protection when outdoors and maintaining a balanced diet rich in nutrients beneficial for eye health, such as omega-3 fatty acids and vitamins A, C, and E. Regular eye check-ups continue to be important as many vision changes occur during this period.
Common Paediatric Eye Conditions to Be Aware Of

As parents, it’s important that you stay vigilant about your child’s health. While regular eye check-ups are essential, understanding common paediatric eye conditions can further aid in early detection and intervention. Several conditions that you should be aware of are:
- Refractive Errors
Refractive errors, the most prevalent vision issues in children, include astigmatism, myopia, and hyperopia. Astigmatism arises from an irregularly curved cornea, resulting in distorted vision. Myopia, or nearsightedness, makes it difficult to see distant objects clearly, while hyperopia, or farsightedness, affects the ability to see nearby objects. These conditions prevent light from focusing correctly on the retina, leading to blurred vision. Watch for signs such as frequent squinting, head tilting, and holding books or screens unusually close.
- Amblyopia
Amblyopia, commonly referred to as lazy eye, occurs when one eye is weaker than the other, preventing normal visual acuity. Since children often rely on their dominant eye, they may be unaware of their visual deficiency, making early detection challenging. Look for signs like difficulty reading, trouble with attention, or frequently closing one eye.
- Binocular Vision Dysfunction (BVD)
BVD arises when the eyes do not work together effectively due to misalignment. This condition can lead to symptoms such as anxiety, dizziness, double vision, and headaches.
- Nystagmus
Characterised by involuntary eye movements, nystagmus can be congenital or acquired, with symptoms manifesting as rapid side-to-side or circular eye motions.
- Paediatric Cataracts
Cataracts are not limited to adults; they can occur in children as well. Clouding of the lens can impair vision significantly, leading to difficulty in recognising faces or seeing objects clearly.
- Strabismus
Strabismus, or crossed eyes, can emerge at birth or suddenly appear later. If left untreated, it may lead to amblyopia or permanent vision loss. Watch for signs such as misaligned eyes and excessive squinting.
When You Should Schedule An Eye Exam For Your Child
If you suspect your child may be experiencing any of the visual impairments mentioned above or simply want to ensure their eyes are healthy, it’s essential to schedule eye exams at appropriate intervals. Regular check-ups at an eye specialist clinic play a vital role in safeguarding your child’s eyesight and overall development.

We recommend the first eye examination at around six months of age. This initial check helps identify any early signs of vision issues that may require intervention. Following this, it’s advisable to have your child’s eyes examined annually from ages three to five. These formative years are critical as your child’s vision continues to develop, and early detection can prevent future complications.
After the age of five, eye exams should occur every one to two years until your child turns 16. However, certain circumstances may warrant more frequent assessments. If your child has a diagnosed refractive error, eye disease, or any other optical condition, regular examinations become crucial. Do also watch out for signs of nearsightedness, misaligned eyes, or lazy eyes, which may indicate a need for a comprehensive evaluation.
A family history of genetic eye diseases also necessitates closer monitoring, as these conditions can be hereditary. Lastly, if your child exhibits symptoms like red, swollen, or cloudy eyes, consult an eye specialist promptly, as these may be signs of infections, allergies, or other serious eye conditions that require immediate attention.
Glasses and Contacts for Children
When your child receives a diagnosis of a vision problem, such as refractive errors like myopia, hyperopia, or astigmatism, corrective measures like wearing glasses become essential for their visual health. Similarly, children with misalignment issues like strabismus or amblyopia may also require glasses to ensure their eyes develop properly and function optimally.
However, some children may resist the idea of wearing their glasses initially, viewing them as an inconvenience or an unwanted accessory. To ease this transition and help your child adapt to wearing glasses, consider the following strategies:

1. Choose the Right Frames: Selecting frames that complement your child’s face shape and personal style can make a significant difference. Involve your child in the decision-making process; this will not only make them feel more invested but also boost their confidence in wearing glasses.
2. Prioritise Comfort: Opt for frames made from soft, flexible materials, particularly around the ends that sit on your child’s ears. Ensuring the glasses fit comfortably is key; if they pinch or slide down the nose, your child may be reluctant to wear them.
3. Secure the Fit: Adding an elastic strap or eye grips can help keep the glasses in place, especially during physical activities. This added security alleviates concerns about the glasses falling off or becoming damaged.
4. Create a Routine: Encourage your child to wear their glasses consistently by incorporating them into their daily routine. Establish a morning checklist that includes putting on their glasses alongside brushing teeth and getting dressed. This repetition helps normalise the use of glasses in their life.
5. Positive Reinforcement: Offer praise and rewards for wearing their glasses. Simple verbal encouragement or small treats can go a long way in motivating your child. Celebrating their commitment can significantly improve their attitude toward wearing glasses.
6. Lead by Example: If you or your family members wear glasses, share your experiences. Showing that wearing glasses is a common and accepted part of life can help your child feel more comfortable and confident in their own corrective lenses.
If your child continues to resist wearing their glasses after two weeks or expresses concerns about their vision while wearing them, consult an eye doctor. They may have an underlying issue that hasn’t been identified, or their prescription may need adjustment.
For older children and teenagers, contact lenses can serve as a suitable alternative to glasses. Contacts provide greater freedom during sports and recreational activities, eliminating concerns about losing or breaking glasses. But, it’s essential to ensure your child is responsible enough to follow proper hygiene practices.
Educate your child about the importance of hygiene to prevent infections associated with contact lens use. Discussing the risks of improper handling can underscore the significance of adhering to safety protocols.
Ultimately, whether your child wears glasses or contact lenses, the goal is to support their vision and equip them with the necessary tools for a successful educational and social experience. Regular check-ups with an eye care specialist will ensure their corrective measures continue to meet their evolving needs as they grow.
How to Protect Your Child’s Eyesight
Regardless of whether your child has an eye condition or enjoys perfect 20/20 vision, the protection of their eyesight should be one of your top priorities. Here are some effective strategies you can implement to safeguard their vision:
1. Shield from UV Rays: Ensure your child wears sunglasses with 100% UV protection when outdoors, as prolonged exposure to the sun’s harmful rays can increase the risk of cataracts and other eye issues later in life.
2. Nutrition Matters: Emphasise a nutritious, balanced diet rich in vitamins A, C, and E, as well as omega-3 fatty acids. Foods like leafy greens, carrots, and fish can support healthy eye development.
3. Promote Eye Hygiene: Teach your child about proper eye hygiene, such as washing hands before touching their eyes and avoiding rubbing their eyes to prevent irritation or infection.
4. Manage Screen Time: Limit your child’s screen time to reduce blue light exposure, which can strain their eyes. Encourage regular breaks following the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds.
5. Encourage Outdoor Play: Foster outdoor activities to promote eye health and overall physical well-being. Nature provides a variety of visual stimuli that can enhance vision development while reducing the risk of nearsightedness.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How often should my child visit an eye doctor?
It’s recommended that your child have their first eye exam around 6 months of age, followed by another exam at age 3. After that, they should see an eye doctor once a year until age 5, and then every one to two years until they turn 16. However, if your child has a diagnosed vision issue, a family history of eye disease, or exhibits any symptoms of visual impairment, they may require more frequent check-ups. Always consult with your eye care professional to determine the best schedule based on your child’s specific needs.
2. Is a school vision screening sufficient for my child?
While school vision screenings can be helpful in identifying potential vision issues, they are not a substitute for a comprehensive eye exam conducted by an eye care professional. School screenings often check only basic visual acuity and may miss other important factors such as depth perception, eye alignment, or more subtle vision problems. It’s best to have regular comprehensive eye exams to ensure your child’s overall eye health and to catch any issues early.
3. How do I know if my child has a vision problem?
Watch for signs that may indicate your child has a vision problem, including frequent squinting or head tilting, holding books or screens very close to their face, excessive eye rubbing, or difficulty focusing on tasks like reading and writing. Additionally, if your child complains of headaches or shows signs of fatigue during visual tasks, these could be red flags. If you notice any of these symptoms, consult with an eye care professional for a thorough examination to assess your child’s vision health.
Trust Nova Eye Centre For Expert Eye Care
We hope this guide has provided valuable insights into the importance of your child’s eye health and how to navigate the various stages of vision development. Remember, regular eye examinations and timely interventions can make a significant difference in your child’s life, ensuring they can learn, play, and thrive without visual impairments.
If you have concerns about your child’s eye health or need to schedule an examination, we encourage you to reach out to Nova Eye Centre. Our experienced professionals are dedicated to providing comprehensive eye care tailored to your child’s specific needs. Don’t wait—take the first step towards ensuring a bright future for your child’s vision today!