Blurry vision or undetected eye problems can affect more than just how a child sees—they can impact learning, confidence, and even behavior. Many children won’t say anything if something is wrong with their eyesight, and parents may not notice the signs right away. That’s why regular pediatric eye exams are such an essential part of a child’s overall health care.
At East Dallas Family Eye Care, Dr. Ned Kumar and our team provide full-scope eye care for patients of all ages, helping families protect their children’s vision from toddlerhood through the teen years. Continue reading to discover when to book your child’s first visit, what’s checked during the exam, and why annual checkups are key for healthy eyes.
When Should My Child Have Their First Eye Exam?
Dr. Kumar recommends scheduling your child’s first eye exam at age 3, followed by yearly visits every 12 months. Even if your child isn’t showing signs of vision problems, an exam can detect hidden conditions like amblyopia (lazy eye), strabismus (eye turn), or even rare but serious issues such as childhood cataracts or tumors. Early detection makes treatment more effective and protects long-term vision.
As Dr. Kumar explains, “Just like you take your child to the dentist or pediatrician each year, annual eye exams are essential for protecting vision and catching problems before they affect learning or development.”
How We Examine Toddlers and Young Children
A toddler’s eye exam looks a little different from an older child’s. Since young children can’t read an eye chart or describe their vision, we use specialized tests—often simply having them look at lights or images—to evaluate their eyes. This allows Dr. Kumar to check for proper eye alignment, healthy internal structures, and clear vision without requiring verbal feedback from the child.
Signs Your Child May Have a Vision Problem
Vision issues don’t always cause pain, so children often won’t complain. Parents should watch for behaviors like sitting too close to the TV, holding books or devices very close, or struggling with schoolwork. Teachers may also notice difficulties and move a child closer to the front of the classroom—an indicator that it’s time to book an exam.
Why a School Vision Screening Isn’t Enough
School screenings and pediatrician vision checks can be useful, but they are not a substitute for a comprehensive eye health examination. Screenings measure visual acuity but do not evaluate the health of the eyes or detect certain conditions. Dr. Kumar has seen children pass school screenings yet fail a professional eye exam—and vice versa. Only a full optometric exam can provide a complete picture of your child’s vision and eye health.
Insurance and Exam Costs
If you’re unsure whether your vision plan covers pediatric exams or glasses, the best step is to call our office. Our staff can verify benefits and explain coverage for exams, frames, and lenses so there are no surprises. For families without vision insurance, a comprehensive pediatric eye exam starts at $150 and includes advanced imaging, microscopic evaluation, and highly precise prescription measurements.
Schedule Your Child’s Eye Exam in Pleasant Grove
Healthy vision is essential for your child’s learning and development. Regular exams can prevent small issues from becoming big problems, keeping your child on track both in and out of the classroom.
At East Dallas Family Eye Care, our caring team is here to make pediatric eye care simple and stress-free. Call us today at 214-506-2549 or visit us in Pleasant Grove, Texas, to schedule your child’s next exam.
Frequently Asked Questions
How is a toddler’s eye exam different from an older child’s?
Since toddlers can’t communicate or read an eye chart, specialized tests are used to check eye alignment, internal health, and clear vision without verbal feedback.
Can vision problems in children affect their performance in school or behavior?
Yes. Poor or impaired vision can lead to learning difficulties, frustration, and behavioral issues, making early detection and correction essential.
What if I don’t have vision insurance for my child?
A full pediatric eye exam starts at $150 and includes advanced imaging, detailed health evaluations, and precise prescription measurements.
Does my child need a pediatric-specific optometrist?
No. A general optometrist with full-scope training, like Dr. Kumar at East Dallas Family Eye Care, can provide comprehensive care for patients from age 2 through adulthood.