Eye Care for Kids: From Infancy to Teen Years

Understanding Eye Care for Kids

Healthy vision is essential for children’s learning, development, and everyday activities. From infancy through adolescence, kids experience rapid visual growth, making eye care for kids critical. Regular eye exams ensure early detection of common conditions like amblyopia (lazy eye), strabismus (crossed eyes), and refractive errors.

Baby Eye Care (0–2 Years)

During the first years of life, babies’ vision develops quickly. They learn to focus, track objects, and recognize faces. The American Optometric Association (AOA) recommends an initial eye exam between 6–12 months. Early screenings can detect developmental issues that are easier to treat when caught early.

Do babies get eye exams?

Yes. The first exam usually occurs before the first birthday. Pediatricians also monitor visual milestones at well-child visits.

Preschool Vision (3–5 Years)

Visual skills like depth perception, color recognition, and hand–eye coordination improve during preschool. Children should have at least one comprehensive eye exam before entering school.

When should I check my kid’s vision?

For most children, a preschool eye exam is recommended around age 3–5.

How to know if my child needs glasses?

Look for behaviors such as squinting, sitting close to screens, eye rubbing, or frequent headaches. For a deeper breakdown, explore our article on signs your child needs glasses.

School-Aged Kids (6–12 Years)

School introduces heavy visual demands. Blurry distance vision, trouble reading, or headaches may indicate refractive errors.

How often should a kid get an eye exam?

Annually, especially once screen time increases and academic reading intensifies. Check out more back to school eye care in our blog, Back to School Eye Health: Tips for Students and Parents to Maintain Healthy Vision.

Teen Vision (13–17 Years)

Teens begin spending more time on digital devices. Encourage annual exams and proper lens care. Lightweight, flexible, yet durable frames remain a top choice for active teens.

Help reduce digital eye strain with our guide to computer glasses for kids.

Why Choose Yesglasses for Kids

Ensuring your child has the right eyewear is as important as regular eye exams. Yesglasses offers a full range of kids’ eyeglasses designed for comfort, durability, and style – so your little ones can learn, play, and see clearly.

We also provide blue-light glasses for kids who spend time on tablets, computers, or gaming devices, helping protect their eyes from digital strain. Our kids’ sunglasses and light-responsive lenses are perfect for outdoor activities, giving parents peace of mind knowing their children’s eyes are protected from UV rays.