Children’s Eye Exams in Phoenix, AZ
A children’s eye exam checks how well your child sees and how their eyes are developing. Beyond reading letters off a chart, it evaluates eye teaming, focusing ability, and overall eye health — things a school vision screening simply isn’t designed to catch. Since so much of early learning depends on vision, an exam gives you a clear, complete picture of how your child’s eyes are working.
Who Needs a Children’s Eye Exam
The American Optometric Association recommends a child’s first eye exam around age one, again before starting school, and then every one to two years after that. Kids who struggle in school, sit close to the TV, or have a family history of vision problems may need to be seen sooner. Since children rarely know their vision is “off,” regular exams are the best way to catch issues before they affect learning.
Common Symptoms to Watch For
- Sitting very close to the TV or holding books close to their face
- Frequent eye rubbing or squinting
- Complaints of headaches or tired eyes after reading
- Avoiding reading or other close-up activities
- One eye that appears to drift or turn
- Trouble keeping up with schoolwork despite putting in effort
What Happens During the Appointment
We keep children’s exams relaxed and age-appropriate. We’ll ask about your child’s development, school performance, and any concerns you’ve noticed, then check their vision, eye alignment, and focusing ability using methods suited to their age. For younger kids who can’t read letters yet, we use picture-based and other kid-friendly testing. We’ll explain everything we find in plain terms and let you know if glasses, further testing, or a follow-up visit is recommended.
Why Northern Avenue Eye Care
As an independent, family-focused practice in Phoenix, we take the extra time growing kids need. Dr. Robert Clanton and our team are known for a calm, patient approach that helps put nervous kids at ease, and we’re glad to build a long-term relationship with your family as your child grows. We see children of all ages and are currently accepting new patients.
Insurance
We accept most major vision and medical insurance plans, including many pediatric benefits. If you don’t see your plan listed or aren’t sure what’s covered, call us at (602) 995-8848 and we’ll check your child’s benefits for you before the visit.
FAQS here
At what age should my child have their first eye exam?
We recommend a first exam around age one, another before starting kindergarten, and then routine exams every one to two years after that.
My child passed their school vision screening. Do they still need an exam?
Yes. School screenings only check basic distance vision and can miss issues with eye teaming, focusing, and overall eye health.
What if my child isn’t old enough to read letters?
That’s not a problem. We use picture charts and other age-appropriate methods to test vision in young children.
Can vision problems affect my child’s schoolwork?
Yes. A large part of learning is visual, so undetected vision or focusing problems can look like trouble paying attention or falling behind in reading.
What ages do you see?
We see children starting around age one through the teenage years, and continue caring for them into adulthood.
How can I tell if my child needs glasses?
Signs include sitting close to screens, squinting, headaches, or falling behind in reading. An eye exam is the only way to know for sure.
Is a children’s eye exam different from an adult exam?
The core goals are the same, but we adjust our approach and pacing to keep kids comfortable and engaged throughout.
Do you accept my insurance?
We accept most major vision and medical insurance plans. Call us at (602) 995-8848 and we’ll confirm your child’s coverage before the visit.
Give Your Child’s Vision the Attention It Deserves
Dr. Robert Clanton and our team have been caring for Phoenix families since 1994. Schedule your child’s eye exam today and see the difference a patient, family-focused practice makes.