Caring for young eyes?

Caring for Young Eyes

Children's eyes are still developing well into their teens, and regular eye examinations play an important role in healthy visual development. We offer gentle, child-friendly eye tests for infants, school-age children, and teenagers, in a relaxed setting that puts young patients at ease from the moment they walk in.

Why children's eyes need checking

Vision problems in children are surprisingly common and often go unnoticed. Around one in five school-age children has an undetected vision problem, and because children don't always realise their sight isn't normal (they assume everyone sees the world the way they do), it can take years for an issue to come to light. By that point, it may already be affecting their reading, concentration, confidence, or progress at school. Some conditions, like amblyopia (lazy eye) and squints, respond far better to treatment when caught early. The visual system is most adaptable in childhood, and the earlier we identify a problem, the better the outcome. Other issues, like short-sightedness, can be managed with specialist treatments to slow progression and protect long-term eye health.

What our children's eye examinations include

• Age-appropriate testing techniques that don't rely on reading
• Assessment of visual acuity, focusing, and tracking
• Eye alignment and binocular vision checks for squints and lazy eye
• Colour vision testing
• A full health check of the eyes inside and out
• Myopia management options for short-sighted children

When should my child have an eye test?

We recommend a first eye examination by the age of three, or sooner if you have any concerns. After that, a check every one to two years is sensible for most children. If your child is struggling at school, holding books or screens unusually close, squinting, getting headaches, or rubbing their eyes a lot, do bring them in sooner. None of these symptoms are something to worry about on their own, but they're all worth checking.

Contact lenses for children and teenagers

Glasses aren't the only option. For many older children and teenagers, contact lenses can be a wonderful alternative, whether for full-time wear, for sport, or simply for the confidence boost of going glasses-free at school or when out with friends. We're often asked whether children are "old enough" for lenses, and the honest answer is that age matters less than maturity. If a child can take care of their belongings, follow simple hygiene routines, and is keen to try, they're usually a great candidate. We've successfully fitted children as young as eight. We take time during a contact lens consultation to teach insertion, removal, and proper care, and we don't rush the process. A trial period is always included so your child can try the lenses in real life before any commitment.

Myopia management for short-sighted children

Short-sightedness in children is becoming more common, particularly with the amount of time spent on screens and indoors. The concern isn't just blurry distance vision, it's that high levels of myopia in adulthood increase the risk of serious eye conditions later in life such as retinal detachment, glaucoma, and macular problems. We offer specialist myopia management options designed to slow the progression of short-sightedness during the years a child's eyes are still growing. These include specially designed spectacle lenses, and specialist soft daily disposable contact lenses worn during the day, which have been shown in clinical studies to meaningfully reduce how quickly a child's prescription worsens. For children whose prescription is increasing year on year, myopia management can make a significant difference to their long-term eye health. Ask us at your child's next appointment whether they're a suitable candidate.

Making it a good experience

We work hard to make sure children feel comfortable and even enjoy their visit. Our optometrists explain everything in an age-appropriate way, take their time, and turn the test into something more like a game than an assessment. Parents are welcome in the testing room throughout. If your child is anxious about glasses or has had a difficult experience elsewhere, just let us know when you book and we'll plan the visit accordingly.

Frames for children

If glasses are needed, we stock Miraflex, a specialist children's frame brand designed to be flexible, lightweight, and virtually unbreakable. Built without metal hinges or sharp edges, they're a brilliant choice for active children and toddlers who would test the limits of a standard frame.

We create a relaxed, friendly environment where children feel comfortable. Our optometrists are experienced in working with young patients and will explain everything in a way that's easy to understand.