Detect eye issues early

Pediatric Eye Exam

Call or text to schedule an appointment
Detect eye issues early

Pediatric Eye Exam

Call or Text to Schedule Appointment

Because many eye problems start at an early age, regular pediatric eye exams are essential to detecting issues early and preserving long-term vision. At Primary Eye Care Associates in Chicago, IL, we provide comprehensive eye care for the whole family, including babies and children. Our highly skilled optometrist, Dr. Steven Chander, has the expertise necessary to diagnose and treat eye health and vision problems in children of all ages.   

We find working with children very rewarding. There’s nothing better than helping a child see clearly and realize there’s a whole new world out there.  

How often does your child need to see an eye doctor?  

Your child should have their first eye exam at six months, followed by a second exam at three years old and again before they enter kindergarten. For school-aged children, you should schedule an eye exam every two years if no vision correction is required. Children who need eyeglasses or contact lenses should be seen annually or as recommended by their eye doctor.  

Why are pediatric eye exams important? 

Regular pediatric eye exams are essential for several reasons: 

  • Early detection of vision problems: Many vision problems, if left undiagnosed and untreated, can have a significant impact on a child’s development, learning abilities, and overall quality of life. By detecting any potential issues early on, we can intervene and provide appropriate treatment to optimize your child’s visual health. 
  • Slow the progression of myopia: Pediatric eye exams are crucial for detecting myopia (nearsightedness) early in children. Myopia is a common refractive error in which distant objects appear blurry, while close objects can be seen clearly. It is becoming increasingly prevalent, particularly in urban areas and among children who spend a significant amount of time on near work, such as reading or using electronic devices. Detecting myopia early through regular eye exams allows us to implement appropriate myopia management strategies promptly. These strategies can help reduce the progression of myopia and potentially minimize the associated risks and complications.
  • Academic success: Clear and comfortable vision is crucial for optimal learning. Undiagnosed vision problems can hinder a child’s ability to read, write, and comprehend information effectively. A comprehensive pediatric eye exam can identify any vision-related obstacles that may be affecting your child’s academic performance. 
  • Overall eye health: Pediatric eye exams go beyond evaluating vision. They also allow our experienced optometrist, Dr. Chander, to assess the overall health of your child’s eyes. This includes examining the structures of the eye, checking for signs of eye diseases, and monitoring any changes over time. 

    What are the signs of vision problems in children?    

    Detecting vision problems in children can be challenging since they may not be aware that they have an issue or assume that everyone sees the same way they do. However, there are certain signs that can indicate the presence of vision problems in children. By recognizing these signs and scheduling regular pediatric eye exams with a qualified optometrist, potential issues can be identified early when treatment is most effective. 

    Signs your child should see a pediatric optometrist:      

    • Frequent blinking, squinting, or irregular eye movements    
    • Frequently turning or tilting their head  
    • Covering or closing one eye to see better  
    • Poor hand-eye coordination or motor skills  
    • Rubbing their eyes frequently  
    • Frequent headaches   
    • Leaning in too close to see something or read  
    • Learning difficulties and poor handwriting    

    What to expect during a pediatric eye exam 

    During a pediatric eye exam at our office in South Side Chicago, Dr. Chander evaluates both your child’s vision and eye health. The specific tests and procedures may vary depending on their age, but they typically include: 

    • Visual acuity test: This test measures your child’s ability to see objects at various distances, often using an eye chart specially designed for children. 
    • Refraction assessment: By using advanced techniques, we determine your child’s precise eyeglass prescription, if needed. 
    • Binocular vision evaluation: We assess how well your child’s eyes work together and their ability to maintain proper alignment, ensuring healthy binocular vision. 
    • Eye health examination: Our optometrist thoroughly examines the structures of your child’s eyes, checking for any abnormalities or signs of eye diseases. 
    • Additional testing: Depending on your child’s specific needs, we may perform additional tests to evaluate color vision, depth perception, or other aspects of visual function. 

    Schedule your child’s pediatric eye exam in Chicago today 

    At Primary Eye Care Associates in Chicago, IL, our friendly and experienced team is here to ensure your child receives the best possible eye care. To schedule a pediatric eye exam or learn more about our services, please contact us today. We look forward to helping your child achieve optimal vision and eye health.