Children's Vision

Regular and early children eye examinations are crucial to detect any signs of vision issues.

Regular eye examinations are very important for young children as their eyes can change rapidly as they develop. They may not recognise that they do not see clearly, and likewise the parents may not realise that there is a visual problem.

A young child’s vision does not fully develop until the age of seven, making early detection and treatment that can prevent vision defects such as “squints” or “lazy eyes” very important.
Good vision is essential for learning and performing well at school.

We run a large children’s clinic in a relaxed and friendly environment and aim to make the experience as much fun as possible. We recommend that all children have an eye examination at least every two years, or at more regular intervals if advised. Children as young as one can have their eyes examined. To book an appointment please call us on 020 8579 3241.

Early Warning Signs

Here are some common signs to look out for:

Squinting
Excessive blinking
Watery eyes
Headaches
Sitting too close to the TV
Holding reading matter too close
Poor performance at school
Reluctance to read
Bumping into objects

If you are concerned that your child shows any of these signs please make an appointment to see one of our optometrists. The sooner we can sort out any problems the quicker your child can enjoy better vision.

When Should Children have their Eyes Examined

We recommend that children have their eyes examined at the age of one, and if there are no visual problems, at least every two years thereafter. Using a range of modern techniques our optometrists can carry out diagnostic tests even on children who are too young to talk or read a letter chart. Many vision defects including myopia, hyperopia, astigmatism and squints can be inherited – if there is a family history of any of these conditions you should have your child’s eyes examined regularly.

All young children are routinely examined for:

Myopia (short sight)
Hyperopia (long sight)
Astigmatism (distorted vision)
Binocular vision problems including squints and lazy eyes
Difficulty with near focussing
Holding reading matter too close
Colour Vision Abnormalities
Stereoscopic (3-D) Vision

If you have any concerns about your child’s eyes please feel free to discuss it with one of our optometrists. We are very happy to answer your questions.

Spectacles for Young Children

Following your child’s eye examination, if a prescription is required, the optometrist will discuss all the options with you and you will be offered a choice of spectacles.

Our fully qualified dispensing opticians will be pleased to show you our comprehensive range of fun and colourful children’s frames, many of which have sprung hinges.

Children’s spectacles are always supplied with plastic lenses.

The benefits of plastic lenses:

Lighter and safer than the traditional glass lens
Comfortable
Available in thinner materials for higher prescriptions
Available in polycarbonate

Contact Lenses for Young Children

We pride ourselves on running a busy contact lens practice for young children. Wearing contact lenses has been shown to boost confidence and self-esteem especially in teenagers.

We will be happy to discuss with you the variety of contact lenses available and help you choose the best for your child. Successful contact lens wear goes hand-in-hand with high levels of care and hygiene. As with adult wearers, regular contact lens examinations are essential.

Please call us to discuss contact lenses and your child in more detail.

The NHS and Children's Eyes

All children should have an eye examination at least every two years.

Through the NHS, children’s eye examinations are free of charge:

Up to the age of 16
Or 19 if in full time education

If a correction is required, your child will be issued an NHS voucher which can be used towards a pair of spectacles or contact lenses. Please call us on 020 8579 3241 to make an appointment.