Children’s eye care begins earlier than most parents think. At Underhill Optometry, we help families in North York protect their child’s vision from the very start with pediatric eye exams in North York tailored to school‑age growth stages. Children’s eye care begins earlier than most parents think.
When Should My Child Have Their First Eye Exam?
According to our team at Underhill Optometry, the best age for a child’s first eye exam is around six months old. Even infants can benefit from thorough, comprehensive eye exams in North York, especially since many eye conditions show no symptoms in the beginning.
We’ve seen children as young as a few weeks old, but our general recommendation is six months, followed by additional checkups at age three and again before starting school. Establishing this schedule ensures your child benefits from regular eye exams to monitor and protect their vision over time.
Worried your child can’t participate in an exam? No problem. We specialise in eye exams for children of all ages, using child-friendly methods like picture-based vision charts, cartoon videos, and non-invasive techniques to ensure accurate results without stress.
Our experienced eye doctors in North York are skilled in child-centered eye exams and early vision detection.
How Eye Exams Work for Non-Verbal or Pre-Literate Kids
Worried your child can’t participate in an eye exam? No problem.
We use child-friendly methods like:
- Picture-based vision charts
- Cartoon videos to hold attention
- Retinoscopy to measure prescription without needing a response
- Manual tools like penlights and lens bars to evaluate eye health
This type of eye exam is called an objective exam. Your child doesn’t have to read letters, speak, or respond to commands. We get accurate results while your child simply watches a cartoon or follows a light.
Adapting Eye Exams for Kids with Special Needs
At Underhill Optometry, we work with children across the developmental spectrum—including those with autism, ADHD, or sensory sensitivities. We adjust the exam based on what your child is comfortable with.
Here’s how we adapt:
- Conducting faster exams for shorter attention spans
- Using distraction techniques for kids who fidget or explore
- Performing objective-only exams for non-verbal or easily overwhelmed children
Every exam is personalized, and our goal is always the same: keep kids calm, focused, and supported while delivering accurate results.
What Lens Material Is Best for Kids’ Glasses?
Many parents ask which lens material is safest for kids. While this decision is often handled by our optical team, here’s our advice:
- Trivex lenses are a great option. They’re durable like polycarbonate but offer better clarity and comfort.
- For older kids (age 10+), standard plastic lenses may be appropriate depending on their activities and prescription.
Safety, clarity, and comfort all matter when choosing lenses, and our team ensures your child’s glasses provide optimal protection against potential eye and vision problems. We’re here to help you make the best choice for your child’s unique needs.
Vision Care for Kids in North York
If you’re searching for a “kids eye doctor near me” or “pediatric eye exams in North York”, Underhill Optometry is your trusted local partner.
We provide:
- Friendly, patient-centered care
- Age-appropriate testing for infants to teens
- Flexible approaches for children with unique needs
Let’s help your child see clearly and confidently—starting today.
Visit us easily—check our hours & location to schedule at a convenient time in North York
Ready to book your child’s eye exam? Contact us now and book an eye exam appointment.