What to Expect During Your Child’s Eye Exam

Date: 04/22/26

Why Eye Exams Matter

From the crib to the classroom, kids need a clear view of the world to understand it. Eye exams keep their eyes healthy and free from future problems.

These exams are important to keep up with as kids grow. While they may have vision tests at school, those are often just quick readings of a letter chart.

A full exam from an eye doctor is best for finding major eye health issues and getting glasses. Plus, kids may be too nervous to admit vision problems at school. An eye doctor can see through that with their tools and knowledge.

What Happens During an Eye Exam

First, it’s important for kids to know eye exams are safe. The doctor won’t poke their eyeballs. But they may shine a small light around their eyes and ask them to look at pictures, letters, or objects in the room.

Again, these tests don’t hurt. They help eye doctors see how a child’s eyes focus, track movement, and work together.

Some of the tests may feel silly. For example, the child might have to wear special glasses, point at shapes, describe pictures, or follow lights.

After the exam, the doctor may prescribe glasses. Tell your child not to worry — glasses are cool! Many kids wear them.

Of course, glasses can be a worry for parents too, as they might seem expensive. But MHS has your back. For members ages 20 and younger, we cover the cost of glasses and a routine eye exam once a year. These things are essential to health, and we want your family to have access to them.

Important Eye Exam Milestones

Eye doctors say kids should have their first eye exam around 6 months old. They should come back between ages 3 and 5, and once a year from there.

Common Fears — And Why Kids Don’t Need Them

Of course, a lot of kids don’t like going to any kind of doctor. Here are some common fears you can help ease …

1. “It might hurt.” Eye exams do not hurt. They don’t involve shots — just flashlights, pictures, and questions.

2. “I don’t know what will happen.” Just explain that the doctor will walk them through the whole exam. And you’ll be right by their side. Plus, most kids find the doctor’s exam tools to be quite fun.

3.“If I need glasses, that’s bad.” Glasses aren’t a punishment or a problem. Explain that they help kids see better when they’re reading, learning, and playing. Lots of kids and adults wear them — nothing scary!

What Happens After the Exam?

After the exam, kids can go right back to school or daycare. If they get glasses, they can start wearing them right away!

Tips for Parents to Help Kids Feel Ready

Talking about the exam ahead of time can calm fears. Remind your child that you’ll be with them and the exam is good for their health.

Eye exams help kids see their best. Be sure to schedule yearly exams for your child.

We know doctors near you can be hard to find. That’s why we’re happy to offer our Find a Provider tool, saving you time and gas money. Check your MHS member benefits as well. You may qualify for free transportation to and from your child’s eye exam.

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Last Updated: 04/22/2026