Good vision is essential for a child's learning, social development, and confidence. Yet many children do not realise they have a sight problem because they have never known anything different. This is why proactive eye testing in childhood is so important — most vision problems are highly treatable if caught early, but some become much harder to correct after the age of seven or eight.
The NHS recommends that all children have a vision screening test in their first year of school (Reception, age 4 to 5). This screening is carried out by the local orthoptist service and typically checks visual acuity in each eye. However, school screening is not a substitute for a comprehensive eye test with an optometrist, which is more thorough and can detect a wider range of conditions including refractive errors, squint, lazy eye (amblyopia), and colour vision deficiency. The College of Optometrists recommends that children have their first full eye test around age three, or earlier if parents have any concerns.
All children under 16 (and those under 19 in full-time education) are entitled to free NHS-funded sight tests and an NHS optical voucher towards the cost of glasses if needed. This means there is no financial barrier to getting your child's eyes tested. You do not need a GP referral — simply call any optician and book an appointment. Children do not need to be able to read to have an eye test; optometrists use picture charts, shape-matching, and objective measurement techniques for younger children.
Signs that a child may have a vision problem include: sitting very close to the television or holding books and devices very close; squinting or tilting their head to see; rubbing their eyes frequently; struggling to read or concentrate at school; one eye turning in or out (squint); clumsiness or poor hand-eye coordination; and complaints of headaches or tired eyes. If you notice any of these signs, book an eye test promptly. It is also worth noting that children of parents who are short-sighted have a higher risk of developing myopia, so proactive testing and myopia management should be discussed with your optometrist.
If your child is prescribed glasses, consistency of wear is key — especially if the glasses are being used to treat a squint, prevent amblyopia, or control myopia progression. Modern children's frames are durable, lightweight, and come in a wide range of styles that children enjoy choosing. Your dispensing optician can help select frames that fit well and are suitable for your child's age and activity level.