As a parent, your child’s health is always top priority—and that includes their vision. Clear eyesight plays a major role in your child’s learning, development, confidence, and everyday comfort.
Many parents assume their child’s vision is fine if they aren’t complaining, but children often don’t realize they’re experiencing vision problems because they think everyone sees the way they do.
That’s why regular children’s eye exams in Edmonton are so important.
In this guide, we’ll cover:
- When your child should have their first eye exam
- What happens during a pediatric eye exam
- Signs your child may need glasses
- Myopia control options for kids
- Programs that help families save on children’s glasses
When Should Children Have Their First Eye Exam?
According to the Canadian Association of Optometrists, children should have their first comprehensive eye exam between 6 and 9 months old.
After that, children should continue having annual eye exams to monitor vision changes and ensure healthy development.
Recommended schedule:
- First eye exam: 6–9 months
- Second eye exam: 2–5 years old
- Annual eye exams after starting school
Routine kids eye exams help catch issues early—before they impact learning, reading, sports, or daily life.
Why Are Eye Exams Important for Children?
Vision problems can affect much more than eyesight.
Undiagnosed vision issues may impact:
- Reading ability
- Focus in school
- Hand-eye coordination
- Confidence in sports
- Overall development
Children may not always communicate vision concerns clearly, which is why regular pediatric eye exams are essential.
What Does an Eye Doctor Check During a Children’s Eye Exam?
A child eye exam involves much more than reading letters off an eye chart.
At RiverCity Eye Care, your optometrist will assess:
Eye Teaming & Coordination
Your child’s eyes need to work together properly.
Your optometrist checks for conditions such as:
- Amblyopia (lazy eye)
- Strabismus (eye turn)
If left untreated, these conditions can lead to long-term vision problems or permanent vision loss.
Early detection leads to better outcomes.
Prescription Needs
Your optometrist will determine whether your child needs glasses to improve:
- Distance vision
- Reading ability
- Classroom performance
- Daily comfort
Many children don’t realize blurry vision isn’t normal.
Overall Eye Health
Your optometrist will also evaluate overall eye health and development to ensure your child’s eyes are healthy as they grow.
Signs Your Child May Need an Eye Exam
Book a children’s eye exam if your child is experiencing:
- Squinting
- Frequent headaches
- Holding screens or books too close
- Sitting too close to the TV
- Complaints of blurry vision
- Difficulty reading
- Eye rubbing
- Poor concentration in school
Even without symptoms, annual exams are still recommended.
What If My Child Needs Glasses?
If your child needs glasses, there are some great programs available to help!
Through the Eye See… Eye Learn! program, kindergarten-aged children may be eligible for a FREE pair of glasses.
We also offer our EYE-M-GROWING program for children 16 and under, which includes:
- A FREE second pair of lenses
- Durable, child-friendly materials
- Premium coatings like:
- Scratch resistance
- Anti-glare
- Anti-smudge
- Optional blue light filtering for added comfort
What If My Child’s Prescription Changes?
Children’s vision can change quickly—especially if they are nearsighted.
If your child is part of our EYE-M-GROWING program, updating their lenses is simple—you’ll receive their second pair free of charge.
For children with Myopia (difficulty seeing far away), it’s common for prescriptions to increase as they grow. The good news is that myopia control lenses are now available.
These specialized lenses can:
- Slow myopia progression by up to 65%
- Reduce long-term dependence on glasses
- Lower the risk of future eye health issues like:
- Glaucoma
- Retinal tear
Supporting Your Child’s Vision for the Future
Regular eye exams are one of the easiest and most important ways to support your child’s overall development. Early detection, proper correction, and proactive care can make a lasting difference in how your child sees—and experiences—the world.
If you have questions about your child’s vision or it’s time for their next exam, we’re always here to help!