Children’s Eye Exams

The Connection Between Learning, Development, & Eyesight

Clear vision plays a big role in how kids learn and grow. From classroom learning to playground fun, their eyes are working hard every day. Comprehensive eye exams can help spot potential issues early, so they are equipped for school, sports, and everyday life.

At Chili Vision Group, we know no 2 kids are the same. Your child will feel comfortable and cared for when they walk through the door.

If your child needs their first pair of glasses, we’ll help them find the right fit for their lifestyle and personality. We also offer contacts for kids on the move. We fit contacts for children as young as 7 or 8.

Ready to book your child’s next exam? Contact us to schedule their eye exam today.

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How Often Do Kids Need an Eye Exam?

Kids’ eyes are constantly developing, which makes regular check-ups important. The American Optometric Association recommends:

First eye exam at 6–12 months old
At least one between the ages of 3 and 5
Every year from age 6 and up

Our team may recommend a different exam schedule depending on your child’s specific needs.

Signs of Vision Issues

Vision issues aren’t always easy to spot. Sometimes, kids don’t even realize they’re struggling to see clearly. Keep an eye out for signs like:

Squinting or closing one eye to see
Complaining of headaches or tired eyes
Trouble focusing when reading or doing homework
Holding screens or books very close
Clumsiness or difficulty with coordination
Avoiding activities they used to enjoy

What Happens During a Children’s Eye Exam?

Our team takes the time to explain the eye exam process to your child, helping them feel at ease while we gather a complete picture of their eye health. We’ll discuss your child’s family health and eye history, medications they’re taking, and any issues or symptoms you may have noticed.

We use modern imaging technology, which gives us a deeper look into the health of their eyes, without any discomfort. During the exam, we’ll check:

Visual acuity (how clearly they see)
Internal and external eye health
Eye alignment and tracking
Depth perception and peripheral vision
Eye focusing ability
Glasses prescription

Common Vision Issues in Children

Kids may not always be able to tell you something’s wrong with their vision, but we’re trained to catch even subtle signs. Some of the most common childhood eye conditions include:

Myopia (nearsightedness): Objects up close are typically clear, but those far away are blurry
Hyperopia (farsightedness): Objects far away are typically clear, but ones up close are blurry
Astigmatism: Blurry vision at all distances due to an irregularly shaped cornea (front clear part of the eye)
Amblyopia (lazy eye): One eye doesn’t develop clear vision like the other
Strabismus (eye turn or crossed eyes): Eyes don’t line up or move together as a team

What Is Myopia Control & Why Does It Matter

Myopia occurs when your child’s eye grows too long. The additional length causes light to focus in front of the retina (back of the eye) instead of on it. When this happens, your child’s vision becomes blurry.

If your child is nearsighted, you may have heard about myopia control. Myopia tends to get worse over time, especially during childhood growth spurts. We offer myopia control treatments designed to help slow the progression of nearsightedness and protect long-term eye health.

Myopia control isn’t just about sharper vision now—it’s about lowering the risk of eye disease later in life.

Contacts for Active Kids & Teens

Contact lenses can be a great option if your child or teen is involved in sports or prefers not to wear glasses. They can give crisp, full-field vision. No foggy lenses, slipping during games, and worrying about breaking frames here!

At Chili Vision Group, we can safely fit contacts for kids as young as 7 or 8. We’ll make sure your child knows how to wear and care for their lenses confidently. And we’ll be right here to support you both along the way.