It is important to take a good care of children's eyes and not miss any opportunity for improvement since children have all their life ahead of them and must keep their eyes at their best.
Newborns eyes are always examined by a physician at birth and if necessary they have an eye examination by an ophthalmologist. If no problems are found children remain under observation of their parents.
During the first year caregivers should observe their infants being able to follow objects and toys. Majority of babies are born slightly farsighted or have hyperopia, which explains why babies tend to hold their toys closer to their faces. This usually changes as they grow older depending on their genetic inheritance. Children, whose family has a strong history of nearsightedness or myopia, should be examined sooner than later. A baby that cannot see well is usually shy and stays very attached to his or her parents. These babies can be examined for a need of glasses with the help of retinoscope, which is an instrument that helps to determine the power of the eye. The ophthalmologist uses a series of lenses and a hand held instrument to observe a reflex. If myopia is considered to be significant, glasses are prescribed regardless of the age of the patient.
If no problems with your child's eyes are known it is always advisable to have a first eye examination before school starts to assure your child can see clear in the class and performs well at school.
Doctor and Associates provides eye exams for children as well as adults. If you have any questions regarding your child's eyes please do not hesitate to call us at 203-227-4113.
