As parents, we do everything we can to support our children’s health and development. While regular checkups with the pediatrician are common, eye health is sometimes overlooked. Pediatric eye exams are just as important as annual medical visits, because many vision problems can develop early in life - and if left undetected, they may impact learning, behavior, and overall development. At Gregg Family Eye Care in North Wales, Pennsylvania, we’re committed to helping families understand why early detection matters when it comes to children’s vision.

Why Pediatric Eye Exams Are Essential

Children rely on their vision to explore, learn, and interact with the world around them. Since so much of classroom learning is visual, undiagnosed vision issues can directly affect academic performance. Even simple problems like nearsightedness or farsightedness may cause difficulties with reading, focusing, or paying attention in school.

Unlike adults, children may not realize they’re having trouble seeing clearly. That’s why comprehensive pediatric eye exams are key - they allow eye doctors to identify issues that a child might not be able to communicate.

Common Vision Problems in Children

Several eye conditions can be detected during a pediatric eye exam, including:

• Amblyopia (lazy eye): Reduced vision in one eye due to poor development.

• Strabismus (crossed eyes): Misalignment of the eyes that can affect depth perception.

• Refractive errors: Nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism.

• Focusing and eye teaming issues: Problems that can make reading and close work difficult.

Early detection means these conditions can often be corrected or managed more effectively, sometimes preventing long-term complications.

When Should Children Have Their First Eye Exam?

The American Optometric Association recommends:

• Infants: First exam at 6-12 months

• Preschoolers: At least once between ages 3-5

• School-age children: Before first grade, then every year depending on risk factors

These regular exams ensure that changes in vision are caught early, allowing timely treatment.

Partner Gregg Family Eye Care for Expert Pediatric Eye Care 

At Gregg Family Eye Care, we provide a child-friendly environment where young patients feel comfortable and cared for. Our comprehensive pediatric exams go beyond basic vision screenings, evaluating eye health, coordination, and focusing ability. We work closely with parents to create treatment plans tailored to each child’s needs, whether that involves glasses, vision therapy, or ongoing monitoring.

Contact Gregg Family Eye Care in North Wales, PA to schedule a pediatric eye exam and take the first step toward safeguarding their visual health. Call (215) 699-2020 to book an appointment today.