Ages 9 to 10 and up: When is an eye exam needed?
We perform eye exams on children starting at around 9 to 10 years of age. At that age, a child can actively participate in the exam and clearly describe what they see. Until the age of 16, a parent or guardian must always accompany the child to the appointment.
Children often don't realize that their vision isn't as sharp as it should be, because they've never known it to be any different. So be on the lookout for signs such as:
- Your child squints to see something in the distance;
- a book, tablet, or phone is held very close;
- The sign at school is hard to read;
- Your child complains of headaches or eye strain after reading or using a screen;
- Your child often rubs their eyes or tilts their head to one side.
If you notice any of these signs, make an appointment. If you have concerns about anything else—such as an eye that looks different or seems to be crossing—see your family doctor.
How an eye exam works and how much it costs
An eye exam for a child is the same as for adults and takes about 30 to 45 minutes. A certified optician will check how clearly your child sees, both far away and up close, and determine whether glasses are needed. We take our time, explain everything calmly, and your child is always welcome to ask questions. We only measure intraocular pressure in children if necessary; if we detect an abnormal reading, we’ll refer you to your family doctor.
If your child already wears glasses, please bring them along. You can read more about the eye exam and how to prepare for your appointment on our other pages. If you purchase glasses, eyeglass lenses, or contact lenses for your child from us—or if it turns out that a vision solution isn’t necessary—the eye exam is free of charge. A standalone eye exam costs €45. You can find all prices on our pricing page.
Are you under 9 years old, or have you already seen an eye doctor?
For younger children, we do not perform eye exams ourselves. In that case, please see your family doctor first, who will refer you to an ophthalmologist if necessary. You can read about the difference between us and an ophthalmologist under “Optician, Optometrist, or Ophthalmologist.” If your child receives a prescription from the ophthalmologist, we will make a pair of glasses with the correct lenses.
If your child brings in a prescription like this, there’s no need for an eye exam at our store. We’ll use the values provided by the eye doctor, choose a frame together, and discuss which lenses are the best fit. You’re welcome to drop by; if it’s busy, we’ll schedule a time together. Please bring the prescription and your child’s current glasses.
When choosing glasses, we look for frames that are sturdy, fit well, and that your child will enjoy wearing. We adjust the glasses to fit your child’s face so they don’t slip down while playing. Be sure to check out our children’s glasses. If your child is growing or the glasses no longer fit properly, please stop by to have them adjusted.
Frequently Asked Questions About Eye Exams for Children
From about 9 to 10 years old. If your child is younger, see your family doctor. If necessary, the doctor will refer you to an ophthalmologist. With a prescription from the ophthalmologist, we make glasses for every child.
Yes, children up to age 16 must always be accompanied by a parent or guardian to the eye exam.
About 30 to 45 minutes, just like with adults. We take our time and explain everything calmly.
No. With your prescription from the eye doctor, you can choose a frame right away, and we'll discuss the lenses. Feel free to stop by; if it's busy, we'll schedule a time together.
If you purchase glasses, eyeglass lenses, or contact lenses from us—or if it turns out that you don’t need a vision solution—the eye exam is free. A standalone eye exam costs €45.
Would you like to have your child's eyes examined? You can find us at 86 Generaal Cronjéstraat in Haarlem. Call us at 023 5254 131 or schedule an appointment using the online calendar on our contact page.
No rights may be derived from the information on this page or from any apparent errors or typos. The information is general in nature and is not a substitute for medical advice. Van der Geest Optiek does not currently employ an ophthalmologist or a college-trained optometrist. As certified opticians, we perform eye exams and, if in doubt, refer you to your primary care physician. We do not offer eye exams for children younger than 9 or 10 years old or myopia management; for these services, please contact your primary care physician, who will refer you to an ophthalmologist if necessary.
