Healthy eyes are important at any age, but they are especially important for children. Vision problems can affect performance in school and a child’s self-confidence, and they may also indicate serious health problems. Fortunately, most vision problems are identified and treated within the first few days of life. Other vision problems may not be obvious until later, which is why eye tests are recommended for preschoolers.

Children should have their eyes tested during regular pediatric appointments, and all children should have a vision screening by the age of five. The doctor will more than likely use a test called the fixation preference test. Each eye is covered and uncovered in turn while the doctor holds an object or picture in front of the patient. The physician studies how each uncovered eye holds its fixation on the object and determines if one is weaker than the other or if they see equally well.

Parents can prepare children for a visit to the ophthalmologist by talking about eyes, looking at pictures of eyes and playing games like "I Spy." It may be helpful to introduce the idea of eye drops to the child and practice putting them in the child’s eyes. Many pediatric ophthalmologists welcome patients to come and tour the office before the official appointment.

If there is a family history of vision problems or if the child exhibits symptoms of strabismus, amblyopia or ptosis, a pediatric ophthalmologist should be consulted right away.

Strabismus, commonly known as crossed eyes, can be corrected with good results if detected early. Treatments include eyeglasses, prisms, vision therapy or eye muscle surgery. Like strabismus, amblyopia (lazy eye) can be treated if caught early. Pediatric ophthalmologists treat amblyopia with atropine eye drops or patching. Ptosis occurs when a child’s eyelid droops over his or her eye and prevents proper vision. The problem is corrected with surgery.

While ailments such as strabismus, amblyopia and ptosis are fairly obvious, sometimes it’s challenging to tell if a child has difficulty seeing, especially if he or she is too young to verbalize the problem. In that case, parents should pay attention to how the child behaves. Tilting the head, squinting, rubbing at the eyes, excessive tears, sensitivity to light and headaches are all signs that a child may have trouble seeing.

Parents can find a pediatric ophthalmologist by asking the child’s pediatrician, looking in their local phonebook, searching online or by calling their insurance company. It may be helpful to ask other parents for recommendations, as well.