Although serious vision problems during childhood are rare, routine eye checks are offered to newborn babies and young children to identify any problems early on. Early detection of sight problems and uptake of treatment is important as it can improve outcomes (late identification can affect child development and education).
Vision - routine and targeted checks
NHS child vision services include routine newborn eye checks and a vision screening for 4- to 5-year-olds, typically at school, to detect early issues – alongside other reviews and targeted checks:
- At birth: A physical examination checks for any obvious eye problems.
- 6 to 8 weeks: A follow-up examination is conducted by a GP or health visitor.
- Around 1 year and 2-2½ years: As part of health visitor child development reviews, parents/ carers are asked about any concerns, and an eye test can be arranged if needed.
- Ages 4 to 5 years: A vision screening is performed to check for reduced vision in one or both eyes. This is often done at school but can be arranged with an optician if not available.
- Parents are advised by the NHS to speak to a health visitor, GP or go to an optician if they have any concerns about their child's vision at any stage.
- Free NHS sight tests are also available at opticians for children under 16 and for young people under 19 in full-time education.
See ‘Screening’ for more information and links for UK Screening, including Vision.
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