Your little one can’t always tell you when something’s wrong—especially with their eyesight. That’s why it’s crucial to know the 7 important signs your toddler needs an eye examination. Vision plays a big role in learning, movement and confidence, so catching issues early makes a huge difference. Some signs are subtle—but once you know what to look for, you’ll feel more confident taking action.
Normal vision development and good vision are closely linked to the learning process, and to developing coordination and motor skills.
That’s the reason why regular eye examinations are therefore so important, even for young children in good overall health, says Inge Loubser, an optometrist at Mellins i-Style.
When should I have my child’s eyes tested for the first time?
Children with no obvious visual impairments should have their eyes first tested by an optometrist between the ages of 24 and 42 months. This should be followed by a second appointment before they start school.
Regular examinations should then be done every two years to ensure that any initial warning signals of deterioration in their vision are detected at an early stage.
Premature babies and children whose parents or siblings have a history of squinting or highly impaired vision should be examined as early as the age of six months and then regularly thereafter.
7 signs your toddler needs an eye examination:
- Regularly holding their head at an angle
- Squinting their eyes
- Avoidance of light or failure to respond to light
- Obsessive rubbing of the eyes with fingers and grimacing
- Turning of the eyes without focusing on anything
- Grasping for objects and missing them
- Strabismus, more commonly known as cross-eyes, is when the eyes are turned or when the eyes have different prescriptions. A lazy eye can develop from this if the child favours the eye that provides clear images and neglects the other, meaning the neglected eye fails to develop its visual acuity.
Mellins i-Style makes use of the Zeiss i.Profiler to measure the 2 500 points of the eye, ensuring precision vision for your child. For more tips and advice on healthy vision, visit Mellins i-Style.
BabyYumYum FAQs: Signs Your Toddler Needs an Eye Examination
What are common signs of vision problems in toddlers?
Common signs include frequent eye rubbing, poor hand-eye coordination, clumsiness, sensitivity to light, and one eye turning inward or outward.
Is squinting a sign of an eye problem?
Yes, squinting can be a sign that your child is struggling to see clearly and may need glasses or further assessment by an optometrist.
Why is my toddler sitting too close to the TV?
Sitting very close to screens may suggest they are having trouble seeing from a distance. It’s worth discussing with your optometrist.
Can delayed speech be linked to vision issues?
In some cases, yes. Vision plays a key role in development, and if a toddler can’t see well, it may affect learning, interaction, and speech development.
What should I do if one of my toddler’s eyes looks different?
If one eye appears to turn in, turn out, or if the pupils look uneven, seek medical advice. It could indicate a condition that needs early treatment.
Are eye tests painful or uncomfortable for toddlers?
Not at all. Children’s eye exams are safe, gentle, and designed to be fun. Many optometrists use playful tools to keep toddlers comfortable.
Will my toddler need glasses after an eye exam?
Not necessarily. If vision issues are mild, your optometrist may suggest monitoring. If glasses are needed, they’ll explain the options clearly.
Can eye problems in toddlers improve over time?
Some minor issues may resolve as children grow, but others need early treatment to prevent long-term vision problems. Early detection is key.
How often should my toddler have an eye examination?
After the initial check, children should generally have an eye test every two years, or more often if recommended by your optometrist.
What should I do if I’m concerned about my toddler’s eyes?
Don’t wait—book an appointment with a qualified optometrist or speak to your GP. Early intervention can make a big difference.
Disclaimer: This content is intended for informational purposes only and does not replace medical advice. If you have any concerns about your toddler’s vision or eye health, please consult a qualified healthcare professional or optometrist.
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