How a child’s eye develop and when they need their first eye exam

 
 As children grow and develop, their eyes are going through many changes. It is essential that parents understand these developmental milestones in order to be able to recognize when something is not quite right. In this blog post, we will discuss how a child's eye develops and when they should have their first eye exam .

 


Early Development of the Eye

From birth to approximately 18 months old, a baby’s vision develops rapidly. By the time they reach six months old, babies should be able to follow objects with their eyes from side to side and also focus on nearby shapes and colors. As well as developing visual acuity, babies at this age are also building a framework for hand-eye coordination and movement of their eyes together (binocular vision).


By 12 months of age, most babies should be able to identify items by name. By the time they are two or three years old, children can easily make out details in distant objects and accurately identify colors, shapes and even people from across a room.


First Eye Exam

It is recommended that all children get their first eye exam at the age of three years old. This scan is usually done by an optometrist who specializes in pediatric eye care. During this initial visit, the doctor will check your child’s vision acuity (distance vision), observe any signs of nearsightedness or farsightedness as well as assess ocular health (the stability of blood vessels or presence/absence of refractive errors).


If any abnormalities or irregularities are spotted during the examination, your optometrist might recommend further tests or tracking over subsequent visits. It is important to remember that good vision starts with healthy eyes! Regular checkups can help detect any possible early warning signs such as lazy eye (amblyopia) before it becomes more severe.


 

 A child's eyes undergo rapid development from birth up until the age of 3 years - which explains why it’s so important for kids to get regular eye exams during this time period! Even if there don't appear to be any issues with a child's sight, it’s still important to keep up with checkups -- just in case something was missed during earlier examinations or there are underlying issues that need addressing. To learn more about pediatric optometry services offered at Wally's Optical contact us today !

 

Share This Blog

Man and eye doctor review results; eye chart visible. Man holds glasses, smiles; doctor holds clipboard.
September 10, 2025
Discover why prescription sunglasses are essential for eye health and style in the city.
Man putting in a contact lens. Close-up of eye with blue iris, finger holding a clear lens.
September 2, 2025
Learn how Wally’s Optical helps clients with sensitive eyes select the most comfortable contacts.
An older man in a tan shirt adjusts his glasses while looking in a mirror, possibly at an optical store.
August 27, 2025
Confused about lens choices? We answer common questions about progressives, bifocals, and more.
Woman trying on glasses in an optical store. She's wearing a pink sweater and looking to the side. Shelves of eyeglasses are in the background.
August 19, 2025
Explore advanced lens treatments and their benefits for your lifestyle and vision needs.
Woman in glasses squinting, holding book, white shirt, white background.
August 13, 2025
Spot the signs you need a new prescription and learn how comprehensive eye exams work.
Woman wearing glasses with blue light reflection, looking intently, in a dark setting.
August 5, 2025
Learn how blue light glasses from Wally’s Optical help prevent digital eye strain for students and professionals.
A woman is putting a contact lens in her eye.
July 18, 2025
Discover the benefits of progressive lenses and how they provide a seamless transition for clear vision at all distances with no visible lines.
A woman is cleaning her glasses with a cloth.
July 3, 2025
Learn essential tips for maintaining your eyewear. From frame adjustments to lens replacements, keep your glasses in perfect shape.
A woman is putting a contact lens on her finger.
June 18, 2025
Explore the different types of lenses offered by Wally's Optical. Learn which lens style best fits your vision needs and lifestyle.
A doctor is examining a little girl 's eye with a magnifying glass.
June 4, 2025
Ensure your child's success with a comprehensive eye exam. Early detection of vision problems is key to supporting learning and development.