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Children under 16—and those under 19 in full-time education—are entitled to free NHS eye tests. Regular eye examinations are essential for detecting vision problems early, supporting healthy development, and ensuring your child can see clearly at school and in everyday life.
Our friendly team makes the experience comfortable and reassuring, with expert care tailored to young patients.
Children’s eyewear should be as unique as they are. We offer a wide range of stylish, comfortable frames designed to suit every personality—from bold and colourful to subtle and classic. With durable materials and a secure fit for active lifestyles, our glasses help kids see clearly while expressing their individuality with confidence.
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In the first year of life the optometrist will check longsightedness, shortsightedness, astigmatism, eye movement ability, proper eye alignment, how the eye reacts to changes in light and darkness, and any general eye problems. If the optometrist suspects an eye problem, your child may be treated within the Practice with spectacles, eye exercises or eye patching. If the optometrist suspects an eye condition which requires medical attention then they will refer your child to the local eye hospital. Early diagnosis of childhood eye disease is crucial to effective treatment.
For children between the ages of 3 and 5, the optometrist will conduct a physical exam of the eyes and also do vision screenings using eye chart tests, pictures, letters, or the "letter matching game”, which tests the child's visual acuity, or ability to see form and detail of objects. If your child is a bit younger, he or she may be asked to identify pictures such as a plane, a house, a duck, or a train. Correcting poor visual acuity is very important in a child's sight development.
Amblyopia, or "lazy eye," is a condition in which there is unequal vision between the two eyes despite using corrective measures such as glasses. It can be caused by unequal errors of refraction, misalignment of the eyes, or cloudiness in the line of vision due to conditions such as cataracts.
Amblyopia is reversible when detected early. Treatment involves patching the better-seeing eye or blurring its vision using atropine drops. Amblyopia is a leading cause of unilateral vision loss in children and young adult
We offer advanced myopia management to help slow the progression of short-sightedness in children and young people. Using evidence-based treatments tailored to each child, including specialist contact lenses and orthokeratology (Ortho-K), we aim to reduce the rate of eye growth and support long-term eye health. Our personalised approach includes regular monitoring and ongoing care to ensure the best possible visual outcomes.
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Some children experience reading difficulties at school, which can have a range of causes, including the need for spectacles, vision support, or eye exercises. One common factor is Visual Stress (also known as Meares-Irlen syndrome), which can make text appear blurry, moving, or uncomfortable to read.
Many children with visual stress benefit from coloured overlays or specially prescribed coloured lenses, which can improve reading comfort and clarity. Research has shown that a significant number of children report improved text perception when using coloured overlays, although the exact reason why colour helps is still being studied.
If your child is experiencing reading difficulties, a visual assessment can help determine whether visual stress may be contributing. Please see our Visual Stress / Meares-Irlen section for more information.
At what age should my child have their first Eye Exam?
As pediatric specialist optometrists we advise every child to have an eye examination from 18 months old upwards. If parents suspect an eye problem at a younger age than this then we are happy to examine the child from any age. All children under 16 years of age, and any child under 19 years of age on full time education, are entitled to an eye examination once a year paid for by the NHS. If the optometrist advises earlier examinations than this the cost of these will also be covered by the NHS.
What is covered by the NHS?
Children under 16 (and under 19 in full-time education) are entitled to free NHS eye tests, and if glasses are needed, they may also receive an NHS optical voucher to help cover the cost of frames and lenses. In many cases, the voucher covers the full cost depending on the prescription and frame chosen, and assistance may also be available for replacement glasses if required.
Our team can advise you on eligibility during your visit.
How Do I Prepare My Child for an Eye Exam?
Make time to sit down and explain what will happen during your child's eye exam. Make sure your child knows that he or she will be asked to look at and identify objects for the optometrist.
These could be pictures, letters, or shapes of light on the wall. Explain also that the eye doctor may put drops in his or her eyes but it will not hurt. Eye drops may sting a bit but only for a moment.
Be honest with your child and work with your optometrist to reassure your child.
What are the signs my child may need an eye test?
- Squinting to see clearly
- Sitting very close to the TV or holding books close
- Frequent eye rubbing
- Headaches, especially after reading or screen time
- Complaints of blurred or double vision
- Difficulty concentrating
- Avoiding reading, homework, or close-up tasks
- Tilting their head or covering one eyePoor hand–eye coordination
If you notice any of these signs, an eye examination can help ensure your child’s vision is clear and comfortable.
Call our team today to arrange your child’s eye test.