While children have several eye screenings — starting with an eye screening in the hospital after they’re born — they still need a comprehensive eye exam. Children should have an eye exam by the age of one and again before entering kindergarten.
But what if your child is feeling nervous about their upcoming exam? New environments, unfamiliar equipment, and fear of the unknown can all contribute to anxiety.
The good news? Nicanor Lacsina, OD, and Yelena Pinkhasova, OD, specialize in pediatric eye exams and know how to create a positive, stress-free experience for their youngest visitors right here in the Bronx, New York.
The Bainbridge Eye Care team shares a few strategies you can implement to help soothe your child’s nerves before their appointment.
Explain what will happen during the exam in simple, age-appropriate language.
Let them know the eye doctor will check their eyes, test their ability to see, and show them some pictures or letters. If your child already wears glasses, explain that their eye exam helps ensure their current glasses are still right for them.
If the exam includes dilating their eyes, you can say something like, “The doctor might put special drops in your eyes that help them look deep inside to make sure everything is healthy. The drops don’t hurt, but they might feel a little funny for a moment, like cool water.” Let your child know it takes about 15 minutes for the drops to work, so you’ll have time to sit together, chat, or play a quiet game like “I Spy” while you wait.
In addition to discussing it, you can read books from the library. Some popular kid television shows also have episodes where the main character visits the eye doctor.
Using media to teach your child about eye exams allows your child to see some of the equipment, so it’s more familiar by the time their appointment rolls around.
If your child is nervous, ask them what is worrying them. Some kids may worry:
Talking about their fears may help you better direct your conversations and reassure them that eye exams don’t hurt.
Make the experience fun by playing pretend at home. Let your child take turns being the “eye doctor” and the patient.
You can mimic parts of the exam, like pointing to letters, covering one eye to look at objects across the room, or examining each other’s eyes.
These playful moments help build familiarity and reduce fear before the real appointment.
Tip: If you use a toy flashlight to examine each other’s eyes, keep it turned off so your child doesn’t associate the exam with discomfort.
If your child has a favorite stuffed animal, toy, or blanket, bring it along. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, these special loveys — officially called transitional objects — can help your child feel more secure and even independent.
The bottom line: Having something familiar nearby can be grounding and soothing during your child’s eye exam.
Schedule the exam at a time when your child is usually well-rested and fed. Avoid nap time or times when your child is likely to be irritable. A calm child is more likely to have a smoother exam.
Help your child learn simple ways to stay calm during the exam. Deep breathing, counting to ten, or squeezing your hand can make them feel more in control. You can also practice these techniques at home so they feel familiar and easy to use during the appointment.
Give your child something to look forward to after their exam, which helps them focus on what happens afterward rather than dwelling on their upcoming exam.
Whether it’s a trip to Ferry Point Park and playground, a favorite snack, or a visit to the Bronx Library Center, having a reward can turn the experience into a positive memory for both of you.
The team at Bainbridge Eye Care understands that each child is unique. They take time to explain every step, speak gently, and use child-friendly tools to ensure a comfortable experience from start to finish.
If your child is due for an eye exam or if you’ve noticed signs of vision trouble, don’t let nerves delay their care. Reach out via phone at 718-306-9127, or click here to request your next exam.
