Healthy vision plays a direct role in how children learn, play, and interact with the world around them. Because many eye conditions develop early and often without obvious symptoms, routine pediatric eye exams are one of the most effective ways to catch problems before they affect your child’s development. Eyes on Rosemont provides thorough, kid-friendly eye exams that combine advanced diagnostic technology with a warm, patient-centered approach.
A pediatric eye exam at Eyes on Rosemont goes well beyond a basic vision screening. Our providers are trained in both conventional and functional medicine, which means we look at the full picture of your child’s visual health, including how their eyes work together, how efficiently they process visual information, and whether any underlying health concerns may be affecting their vision.
Depending on your child’s age and any symptoms they may be experiencing, their eye doctor may evaluate:
We use the latest diagnostic technology to ensure accurate results in a comfortable setting. For example, our Optomap retinal exam technology produces a comprehensive image of the retina without dilation.
This technology detects significantly more retinal conditions and creates a much more comfortable experience for kids of all ages. After the exam, your child’s eye doctor will walk you through the results and work with you to develop a treatment plan tailored to your child’s specific needs.
An estimated 80% of what a child learns in school is presented visually. Reading, writing, board work, and even social cues all depend on clear, comfortable vision. When a vision problem goes undetected, it can look like a learning difficulty, a behavioral issue, or a lack of focus, when the real cause is something that proper eye care can address.
Children often don’t realize their vision is abnormal because they have no frame of reference for what “normal” looks like. A child who struggles to see the whiteboard may assume everyone sees the same way. That’s why professional eye exams are so valuable: they catch issues that children can’t describe, and school screenings may miss.
The American Optometric Association recommends that children have their first comprehensive eye exam at 6 months of age, a second exam at age 3, and another before they start school at age 5. After that, annual exams are recommended to monitor visual development and catch any changes early.
Between scheduled exams, keep an eye out for signs of a vision problem. Because children may not always realize or communicate that something is wrong, parents and caregivers should watch for:
If you notice any of these signs, schedule a pediatric eye exam as soon as possible. Early detection and treatment give your child the best chance at healthy, comfortable vision.
Dr. Allie Decker specializes in pediatric and rehabilitative eye care at Eyes on Rosemont, where she sees patients of all ages at both the Rosemont and Old Port locations. Dr. Decker completed a residency in Vision Therapy and Rehabilitation at EyeCare Associates in Connecticut, where she honed her expertise in therapy techniques that improve visual efficiency and comfort. She provides personalized, thorough assessments for each patient and is dedicated to helping children and adults alike feel confident and excited about their vision.
Dr. Sydney Butalla brings a lifelong connection to optometry and a genuine passion for pediatric eye care to Eyes on Rosemont. During her training, Dr. Butalla completed externships at the Manchester VA and South End Community Health Center, as well as specialized rotations in pediatrics, vision therapy, dry eye, contact lenses, and ocular disease at practices in Connecticut and Colorado. Her interest in pediatric eye care is deeply personal, rooted in her own experience as a young patient in optometry.
Is it time for your child’s next eye exam? The team at Eyes on Rosemont is here to support their visual health at every stage of development. Schedule a pediatric eye exam today at our Middle Street or Brighton Avenue location and give your child the gift of clear, comfortable vision.
We are thrilled to welcome Dr. Allie Decker and Dr. Sydney Butalla to our team! Now offering expert eyecare for kids of all ages-from the ages of 6 months to teens. Book your appointment today! 207-775-1819 – 207-210-6700