Why Are Eye Exams Important for Children?
Children’s vision plays a key role in their learning and development, but they may not always recognize when something is wrong. Regular eye exams do more than check eyesight—they help kids understand how their eyes work and how to take care of them.
Blurry vision, trouble focusing, or eye strain can make reading and learning harder than necessary. Our team will screen your kids for myopia (nearsightedness), a common condition that can start affecting children at a young age.
Regular eye exams help catch problems early before they affect school performance or overall well-being. Schedule an eye exam today and set your child up for success.
How Often Should My Kid Get an Eye Exam?
The Canadian Association of Optometrists recommends a comprehensive eye exam for your kids between 6 and 9 months. Between ages 2 and 5, they should receive another eye exam and an annual exam once they’re school-aged.
Since children’s eye exams are covered for those under 19 in families receiving assistance, we recommend scheduling yearly check-ups starting at 9 months old.
Understanding Myopia
Myopia (nearsightedness) is a common vision issue in children, and it’s becoming more prevalent. Kids with myopia have trouble seeing things at a distance, which can affect their ability to learn at school or participate in sports.
Myopia can worsen, but early intervention can help slow its progression. During your kid’s eye exam, we’ll explain what myopia is in simple terms. When kids see how their vision connects to learning, they become more engaged in their eye health. If your kid needs glasses, we offer durable frames in fun colours that allow your children’s personalities to shine through.
What Are Common Vision Issues in Children?
Children can experience a range of vision problems beyond just needing glasses. Common issues include:
- Myopia (nearsightedness)
- Hyperopia (farsightedness)
- Astigmatism (irregularly shaped eye)
- Amblyopia (lazy eye) occurs when one eye is weaker than the other
- Strabismus (crossed eyes) can affect depth perception and coordination
Refractive errors, like myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism, are common and can be corrected with glasses or contact lenses.
Catching these issues early is key to effective treatment. Our experienced team makes the process easy, helping your child see clearly and feel confident.
Vision, Learning, & Development
Good vision is essential for learning, and minor vision issues can lead to frustration, trouble focusing, and poor academic performance.
Common signs and symptoms to watch out for are:
- Squinting
- Turning or tilting the head
- Closing or covering one eye
- Holding objects close to the eyes
- Headaches or eye strain
- Eye rubbing
- Tearing, red, itchy, or irritated eyes
A comprehensive eye exam helps identify these issues early, allowing for personalized solutions. When your kids can see clearly, they learn more easily, giving them the confidence to succeed.
Helping Your Child See Clearly
Good vision is essential for learning, development, and everyday activities. Our comprehensive children’s eye exams help detect issues early and help your child see their best. With a friendly team and a simple, stress-free experience, we’re here to support your family’s eye health every step of the way.
Contact us to schedule your child’s next eye exam today.
Our Purpose, Our Impact
Our Why
At Oceanside Optometry Clinic, we believe in challenging the status quo in everything we do. We believe in thinking and acting differently about how eye care is delivered and experienced.
Our How
We challenge the status quo by creating a simple, enjoyable, educational optometric experience that helps our patients feel informed so they can make decisions, resulting in the freedom and knowledge to inspire self-directed solutions.
Our What
Our purpose is to provide exceptional care and treatment plans. We strive to offer modern medical technology and quality vision care products in a relaxing environment.
Our Locations
Oceanside Parksville
Our Address
- 183 Harrison Avenue
- Parksville, BC V9P 2H3
Contact Us
- Phone: 250-248-8003
- Fax: 250-984-0755
- Email: [email protected]
Our Hours
Oceanside Nanaimo
Our Address
- 101-6330 Dover Road
- Nanaimo, BC V9V 1S4
Contact Us
- Phone: 250-390-1447
- Fax: 250-860-0046
- Email: [email protected]
Our Hours
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Oceanside Nanaimo
- 101-6330 Dover Road
- Nanaimo, BC V9V 1S4
- Phone: 250-390-1447
- Fax: 250-860-0046
- Email: [email protected]
Oceanside Parksville
- 183 Harrison Avenue
- Parksville, BC V9P 2H3
- Phone: 250-248-8003
- Fax: 250-984-0755
- Email: [email protected]