Vision tests for children
When will my child's eyes be checked?
Your child's eyes may be checked:
- within 72 hours of birth this is known as the newborn physical examination and it can be used tocheck for obvious physical problems
- between six and eight weeks old this is a follow-up physical examination to check for any obvious problems that weren't detected soon after birth
- at around one year old or between two and two-and-a-half years old you may be asked whether you have any concerns about your child's eyesight as part of a review ofyour child'shealth and development ; eye tests can be arranged, if necessary
- at around four or five years old some childrenwill have an eye test when they start school, althoughthis varies, depending on where you live
It's also recommended that children have regular eye testsat least once every two years. These tests can be done at a high street opticians and are free for all children under 16 years old (and those under 19 years old in full-time education).
Speak to your GP or health visitor if you have any concerns about your child'svision at any stage (see spottingvision problems below).
Medically Reviewed by a doctor on 21 Dec 2018
Introduction
When eye tests are routinely offered to children, what they involve and why they're important.
Why eye tests are important
Routine eye testsoffered soon after birth can detect some eye problems immediately, and tests offered later on can help identify any problems that were missed or develop asyour childgets older. Child
When will my child's eyes be checked?
Your child's eyes may be checked: within 72 hours of birth this is known as the newborn physical examination and it can be used tocheck for obvious physical problems between six and eight week
What eye tests may be carried out?
Anumber oftests may be carried out to check for vision or eye problems in babies and children. Some of these are described below. The red reflex test The red reflex test is usually carried out along
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