We're not judging, just here to help.
Helping your kid see better is a pretty cool parent-flex.
In the time you read these, you could have booked the test.
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Our summer prize pack competition like a parenting pro.
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A little thank-you with a big personality. Get swag, surprises and even Opie (yes, the one and only Opie) in plushie form.
What's next?
You're really crushing this parenting thing!
Still got questions? We've got answers.
Why do kids need eye exams anyway?
What happens in an eye exam?
Think of it like a check-up, but for your child’s eyes. Eye exams are entirely safe. They are non-invasive and there are generally no side effects.
And it’s much more thorough than a quick school screening or a mall vision test. During a full exam, the optometrist can:
- Make sure your child’s eyes are healthy and working as a team
- Catch problems early—before your child even notices them
- See if glasses might help with learning or seeing the board
- Check vision after any eye surgery
You book it, they see better, and you get to feel like the MVP of parenting.
How does eyesight impact learning?
Kids use their eyes all day long. Reading, writing, focusing and playing. If one part of their vision isn’t working quite right, school and everyday activities can feel harder. That can lead to things like tired eyes, frustration, or even headaches.
The simple fix? An eye exam can help catch these problems early so they can keep learning like champs!
But what if my child doesn't complain?
That’s the tricky part. Lots of kids don’t realize they’re not seeing clearly. They think everyone sees the same way they do!
That’s why it’s important to get their eyes checked even if they think their vision is just fine.
That’s where you can pat yourself on the back for seeing this as something you can do to make sure.
How often should I get my kid's eyes checked?
You’re asking all the right questions, look at you go!
Here’s our Eye doctors recommend cheat sheet:
- First check-up: Around 6 months old
- Another exam: Between 2 and 5 years old
- Every year: Once they’re in school
No need to worry if your child doesn’t know their ABCs yet either. Optometrists use shapes, pictures and fun games to make it easy and stress-free.
It’s easy. It’s fast. And helping them see their best is just one more win on your parenting scoreboard.
I want to really nerd out. Do you have some great articles to share?
We’re so glad you asked! Here are a few articles to start, and a whole Eye Health Library for kids if you want to keep going.
Eye Exams (School-Aged Children)
Looking after Eye Health – School-Aged Children
Children & Video Games
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Eye Health Library
Knowledge bank
Eye exams are more than seeing well. They are a vital part of your overall health. Learn about eye exams and the different conditions your Doctor of Optometry can manage.
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Catch up with the BC Doctors of Optometry in the news! Latest articles, media appearances, and news releases are collected here for your reference.
Medical Services Plan
(MSP)
In B.C., public health insurance is called the Medical Services Plan (MSP). It can cover or partially cover the cost of medically- necessary insured doctor services.