Eye Exams for Children

Visual health is an important part of a child’s overall well-being, development, and long-term health outcomes. Good vision supports a child’s movement and coordination, independence, play and learning. If left untreated, vision problems can become more serious and may affect a child’s ability to reach their full potential.

Children and youth aged 0 to 19 are eligible for a free eye exam every 12 months through Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP). You can visit the College of Optometrists of Ontario to find a licensed optometrist in your community.

Comprehensive eye exams

Young children may not realize they have a vision problem because they assume everyone sees the same way they do. Regular eye exams are an effective way to identify vision problems early, before they begin to affect learning and development.

The Ontario Association of Optometrists recommends that children have:

• their first eye exam at 6 months
• another exam at 3 years of age
• annual eye exams after that

Children and youth aged 0 to 19 are eligible for a free eye exam every 12 months with a valid Ontario health card.

A comprehensive eye exam is a full assessment of the eyes and vision system. It may include:

• reviewing the child’s health history and family history of eye problems
• checking visual acuity and depth (3D) vision
• assessing eye alignment and eye movement
• checking focusing ability
• examining overall eye health (such as allergies or infections)
• assessing whether the child is meeting visual developmental milestones
• determining the need for eyeglasses or other treatment, such as eye drops, vision therapy, or referral to another healthcare provider

For more information about eye exams for infants and children, visit the Ontario Association of Optometrists website.