When Should Your Child Have Their First Eye Exam? A Guide for Florida Parents

Many parents assume vision problems will show up on their own — that a child will say something, squint, or fail a school screening. In reality, most childhood vision problems go unnoticed for years. Here's when children should have their eyes examined, and why Sunshine Health families in South Florida have no reason to put it off.

The Recommended Eye Exam Schedule for Children

The American Optometric Association recommends a first comprehensive eye exam at 6 to 12 months of age, another between ages 3 and 5, and then annual exams once a child starts school. School vision screenings are helpful, but they are not a substitute — screenings can miss farsightedness, eye teaming problems, and focusing issues that directly affect reading and learning.

Signs Your Child May Need an Exam Sooner

Book an appointment promptly if you notice your child squinting, sitting very close to screens, tilting their head to see, covering one eye, complaining of headaches after school, avoiding reading, or losing their place frequently while reading. Any of these can signal an uncorrected vision problem.

Cost Shouldn't Be the Reason You Wait

For families with Sunshine Health coverage, an annual comprehensive eye exam for your child is typically a covered benefit at no cost to you, and eyeglasses are covered when your child needs them. Advanced Vision Care accepts Sunshine Health at our South Florida locations, and our staff will verify your child's benefits before the appointment so there are no surprises.

Make the First Exam a Positive One

Our doctors examine children every day and know how to make the visit comfortable — no scary equipment surprises, no pressure, and plenty of patience. Call our office or request an appointment online, and give your child the clearest possible start to the school year.