Ask the expert

» How old does my child have to be before they can have their eyes tested?

Children can be tested at any age. It is recommended that an Optometrist sees them before they start school and start learning to read. Often, vision problems can be the reason a child does not perform well at school, for example because they cannot see the board. The earlier a problem is detected the more chance there is of successful treatment. Children's eyes are fully developed by the time they are 8 years old so it is very important to have any problems detected before this.

» When should your child have an eye test?

Your child's first eye check is usually a post-natal check at 1 year. They should then be re-tested before they start school by an Optometrist. This will pick up any problems that may lead to problems that may lead to poor development at school.

» What are the signs of poor eyesight in children?

Some of the most common symptoms that could indicate your child may be experiencing problems with their sight are:

• Sitting too close to the television
• Looking cross eyed
• Holding a book too close to their face when reading

If detected early enough we can ensure children's eye problems have a minimum impact on their lives.

» What is included in a children's eye test?

At Vision Express we can examine any child over the age of 7, the eye test covers 7 keys steps:

• Personal and family history recorded by Optometrist
• A thorough, personalised eye test adapted to your child's age and capabilities
• Your child's vision compared to expected levels of development and growth
• Relevant health checks carried out by looking inside the eyes
• Particular attention given to investigating squints and 'lazy eyes'
• Eye muscle balance checked to ensure correct coordination
• Additional tests if required including colour vision and 3D vision.

» How much does it cost for a children's eye test?

Children under the age of 7 have their eyes tested at the hospital. Any child over the age of 7 can have their eyes tested at Vision Express and it will cost €27.

» How much does it cost for a child's glasses?

If your child is tested at hospital and they quality for a health board voucher, that enables them to choose free frames and lenses from a selected range up to €99. Alternatively, for an additional charge, they can select frames from our other exciting children's ranges, all available at an affordable price.

» My children keep breaking their glasses, what can I do to prevent this?

Children's glasses take a lot of 'wear and tear'. Following the simple steps below can help prolong the life of their glasses;

• Glasses should always be taken off with both hands to stop them bending out of shape
• Never put glasses 'lens down' on surfaces, as they may scratch
• Always keep glasses in a case when they are not being worn
• Clean glasses daily for clearer vision