We know how nervous kids can be when it comes time to go to the doctor. We take pride in making children feel as comfortable as possible while in our office. Our technicians, many of whom are parents themselves, care for little ones with calming compassion. Dr. Day uses painless, fun eye tests that assess eye movement and sensory function, as well as visual acuity. If further diagnostic testing or vision therapy are required, we refer to local pediatric specialists to continue needed eye care.

We recommend that children have their first comprehensive eye exam before they start school, usually around age 4 or 5. While school screenings help to assess for vision impairment, they do not replace a comprehensive, in-office exam with a qualified eye doctor.

What to expect

Like eye exams for adults, Dr. Day will assess the eye health inside and out, assess vision to determine if glasses are indicated, and view the inside of the eye to ensure the whole eye is healthy. We offer a Digital Eyescan which allows us to view the retina, optic nerve, and macula without fully dilating the pupils. This allows us to check for eye diseases such as glaucoma, macular degeneration, and diabetic retinopathy. Yes, even kids can be affected by these conditions

While you may elect to have digital images taken instead of full dilation, your child may still require dilating eye drops as part of his or her exam. These special dilation drops temporarily suspend your child’s ability to “fight” to focus their eyes, which allows us to determine their full, accurate prescription. These drops are safe to use and your child’s pupils will return to normal after a few hours.

How often do kids need eye exams?

It is important for children to return for yearly eye exams as children’s vision often changes within the first several years of life.

Can my child wear contact lenses?

Contact lenses are a great option for many children, but not all. Dr. Day will help you decide what type of vision correction is best for your child based on his or her eye health, vision needs, and maturity level. It is important to know that if you decide to have younger children fit with contact lenses, you will need to play an active role in helping them with insertion and removal as they learn how to handle them. Contact lenses are medical devices and good hygiene is a must! Your technician will review safe handling and care with you and your child before he or she is dispensed their first set of contact lenses.

What are corneal reshaping contact lenses?