From the first smile to their first steps, your child’s world depends on clear, healthy vision. At The Eye Guys, our team provides family-focused pediatric eye care in Sioux Falls to support your child’s visual development every step of the way.
Why Pediatric Eye Exams Matter
According to the American Optometric Association, 80% of learning happens through visual processing. That means undetected vision issues can affect everything from reading and writing to depth perception and hand-eye coordination.
Our team at The Eye Guys understands the unique needs of young patients. Our comprehensive pediatric eye exams check for:
- Eye alignment and movement
- Visual acuity and prescription needs
- Depth perception and color vision
- Signs of lazy eye or crossed eyes
- Developmental milestones in vision
- Overall eye health
At your child’s first eye exam, we’ll explain everything in simple terms and use child-friendly tools to keep them relaxed. We want your child to feel comfortable, confident, and cared for from start to finish.
What to Expect During Your Child’s Eye Exam
When it’s time for your child’s eye exam at The Eye Guys, our focus is on creating a positive, educational experience—for both you and your child. Every eye exam is tailored to your child’s age, needs, and comfort level. Here’s a breakdown of what happens and what we assess:
1. Visual Milestones
From birth to age 12, your child’s visual system goes through rapid changes. We monitor key developmental stages like:
- Tracking objects and eye movement (first 6 months)
- Depth perception and focusing skills (by 12 months)
- Recognizing shapes, letters, and colors (ages 3–5)
- Reading comprehension and distance clarity (ages 6+)
2. Eye Alignment and Movement
Our eye doctors assess how well your child’s eyes work together and move in sync. Poor alignment or control can lead to double vision or reading struggles. Early detection helps us prevent issues like lazy eye.
3. Refractive Errors and Prescription Needs
Children can’t always describe blurry vision. We check for myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism, all of which can be corrected with glasses. Catching these early helps prevent squinting, headaches, and classroom frustration.
4. Depth Perception and 3D Vision
Whether it’s playing sports or pouring a glass of milk, depth perception matters. We use simple eye tests to evaluate how your child sees the world in three dimensions.
5. Color Vision Testing
Color blindness is more common in boys and can affect how they learn. A basic color vision screening helps us identify this early and recommend strategies to support learning.
6. Eye Health and Family History
We review your child’s overall eye health and check for signs of inherited conditions. If you have a family history of eye problems, early eye exams are even more critical.
Red Flags: Signs Your Child May Be Struggling with Vision
Children don’t always know how to explain when something isn’t right with their eyesight. As a parent, being aware of subtle signs can help you catch problems early. Here are some red flags to look out for:
- Frequent squinting or head tilting
- Holding books or screens very close
- Complaints of headaches or tired eyes
- Excessive blinking or eye rubbing
- Short attention span during reading or homework
- Avoiding activities that require seeing up close
- Difficulty recognizing colors or shapes
- Sitting too close to the TV
- Covering one eye to focus
If you notice any of these behaviors, it may be time to schedule a comprehensive pediatric eye exam with The Eye Guys in Sioux Falls.
Protect Your Child’s Vision with Eye Care in Sioux Falls
Healthy vision sets your child up for success—let’s protect it, together. Book your child's next eye exam to get simple, approachable eye care centered around your family’s lifestyle.
Pediatric Eye Care FAQs
When should my child have their first eye exam?
- Your child should have their first comprehensive eye exam between 6 and 12 months, followed by another around age 3, and again before they start school. After that, annual checkups are recommended.
What signs suggest my child may have vision problems?
- Watch for signs like squinting, tilting their head, rubbing their eyes, frequent headaches, or difficulty reading. Any of these may point to an issue with your child’s vision.
Are vision screenings at school enough?
- No. School screenings can miss up to 60% of vision problems. A pediatric eye exam at The Eye Guys provides a full evaluation of your child’s eyes, including how well they work together.