Children's Eye Care Exam

Did you know 80% of a child’s early learning is done visually? If your child has undiagnosed eye issues, this could affect their school performance. Regular eye exams are essential for learning and early development, so bring them in as soon as possible. 

At Sunridge Eye Clinic, we want to protect your child’s vision while making eye care fun. Choosing a kid-friendly eye clinic will help your child become invested in taking care of their eyesight and developing healthy eye habits, like wearing their glasses and taking care of them. 

Affordable Eye Care

We believe parents shouldn’t have to compromise their family’s wellness because of finances. If you are concerned about the cost of eye health, please don’t delay bringing your children in for their exams. Alberta Health Care covers the cost of eye examinations for all children in the province up to the age of eighteen. We are committed to accessible eye care and should your child need help beyond the appointment, we will discuss your options and can help you select sturdy, affordable glasses if your child needs them. 

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What If I Can’t Afford Eyeglasses For My Children?

Another great reason to bring your child in early is if they are going to kindergarten, they can receive free eyeglasses through the EYE SEE EYE LEARN (ESEL) program. If your child has been seen by a doctor of optometry and requires a eyeglasses, ESEL provides a free pair.

Simply tell your eye doctor you would like to participate in the ESEL program; no applications are necessary.

When Should I Schedule An Eye Exam For My Child?

Growing children require more frequent exams than adults. While adults can go up to two years between appointments, children have a different schedule. 

The Canadian Association of Optometrists recommends the following:

• 0-2 years: Babies should be brought in for their first appointment between six and nine months.
• 2-5 years: Preschool children should have at least one exam to prepare them for school. This is a good opportunity to use the ESEL program mentioned above if glasses are needed.
• 6-19 years: School-aged children should have an eye exam every year.

What Is Included In A Child's Eye Exam At Your Calgary Eye Clinic?

Our children’s eye doctor will administer tests for the following:

• General eye health
• Near vision
• Distance vision
• Color blindness
• Eye movement control
• Focusing 
• Peripheral vision perception
• Hand-eye coordination

In addition, your optometrist can discuss protective eyewear for sports, how to deal with “lazy eye” and other concerns, and suggestions for corrective lenses, whether contacts or eyeglasses. 

Signs Your Child May Have Vision Difficulties

Even if your child is having regular eye exams, it is important to note any symptoms of eye strain or eye health changes between appointments.

Please make an appointment if your child experiences the following:

• Excessive blinking
• Frequent eye rubbing
• Squinting or covering one eye
• Headaches or dizziness
• Holding objects close to the face, especially books while reading
• Lowered concentration while looking at objects
• Using a finger as a placeholder while reading
• Exaggerated clumsiness
• Poor school performance

Contact Us

Our Calgary eye care team can provide comprehensive care whether your high schooler needs contacts or your toddler has never had an exam before. 

Schedule an eye exam with our experienced Sunridge eye doctors today or call our clinic at (403) 280-7518.