Pediatric Eye Care
Healthy vision is essential to a child’s learning, development, and overall well-being. At Chippewa Valley Eye Clinic, our optometrists provide comprehensive, compassionate eye care tailored to the unique needs of children—from newborns to teens. Whether your child needs a routine eye exam, treatment for an eye condition, or ongoing monitoring, we use advanced diagnostic tools and kid-friendly techniques to ensure accurate, comfortable care at every stage.
The Importance of Pediatric Eye Care
Children’s eyes grow and change rapidly. Early detection of vision problems can prevent long-term issues and support success in school, sports, and daily life. Many childhood eye conditions are easily treatable when caught early, underscoring the importance of regular pediatric eye exams.
Conditions We Diagnose & Treat
Our Optometry team evaluates and manages a full range of childhood eye concerns, including:
• Amblyopia (Lazy Eye)
Treatment options include glasses, patching, atropine drops, or vision therapy-based strategies.
• Strabismus (Eye Misalignment)
Evaluation and treatment using glasses, prisms, or surgical correction as needed.
• Refractive Errors
Nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism, including prescriptions for glasses and contact lenses.
• Childhood Eyelid & Tear Duct Disorders
Blocked tear ducts, ptosis, or eyelid abnormalities.
• Congenital Eye Conditions
Including congenital cataracts, congenital glaucoma, and other developmental eye issues.
• Eye Injuries & Infections
Prompt evaluation and treatment of pink eye, styes, trauma, or foreign bodies.
• Vision Concerns Related to Learning or Development
Screening for issues that impact reading, tracking, or school performance.
Comprehensive Pediatric Eye Exams
We use child-appropriate tools and techniques to evaluate:
-
Visual acuity
-
Eye alignment and tracking
-
Refractive error (need for glasses)
-
Eye muscle function
-
Eye health from front to back
-
Signs of congenital or developmental conditions
Our exams are designed to keep children comfortable and engaged while providing parents with clear explanations and guidance.
When To Schedule A Pediatric Eye Exam
Your child should be evaluated by an eye care professional if they experience any of the following:
-
Frequent squinting or eye rubbing
-
Trouble reading or complaints of blurry vision
-
Head tilting or covering one eye
-
Eye drifting or crossing
-
Excess tearing or discharge
-
Sensitivity to light
-
Poor performance in school that may be vision-related
In addition to symptom-based visits, routine eye exams are recommended at key developmental milestones to ensure healthy visual development:​
-
Between 6–12 months – First comprehensive eye exam
-
At 3–5 years – Preschool exam to detect early conditions like amblyopia and strabismus
-
Before starting school (around age 5–6) – To ensure readiness for visual learning
-
Every 1–2 years thereafter – Throughout school-age years, even if no symptoms are present
Regular exams help detect issues early, support learning, and protect long-term visual health.
How early should my child have their first comprehensive eye exam?
A full pediatric eye exam is recommended between ages 3–5, or earlier if concerns arise.
