Infants And Vision Assessment: The InfantSEE Program.
The eyes are such a critical part of growth and development for babies, but most parents assume their infant does not need a vision health assessment until later in life. The InfantSEE program in Newark is specifically in place to make sure infants get the vision health screenings they need.
Do infants really need an eye exam?
When your baby is born, their vision is pretty blurry and the eyes have not yet learned how to focus or work together. Problems with vision during this period of time may not be all that noticeable, but they can interfere with their overall development. For example, an infant that has poor vision may not learn how to recognize faces or certain shapes. Early assessment can help to point out problems that can be corrected relatively quickly so there is little interference with your infant’s overall development.
Common Signs of Vision Problems in Infants
Infants can’t tell you what they see with their eyes or even how their eyes feel, so vision problems in infants are harder to recognize. Nevertheless, most infants will portray certain symptoms if they are having vision problems, such as:
- Seeming overly sensitive to light
- Moving the eyes rapidly or in an excessive manner
- Excessive tearing when the infant is not crying
- Redness, inflammation, or crusting around the eyes
- Pupils that have an unusual appearance or color, such as white
In some cases, parents will notice developmental delays in their young children. For instance, most infants will make eye contact within the first few months of life, so if this doesn’t happen, it could be a sign of vision problems.
A Look at the Free InfantSEE Program
The InfantSEE program was established by the American Optometry Association to help make sure all babies have direct access to vision care. The program covers a free assessment for babies between 6 and 12 months of age with a participating eye doctor.
Find Out More About the InfantSEE Program in Newark, OH
To schedule a no-cost vision assessment for your infant, you will need a Newark eye doctor that participates in the InfantSEE program. Here at Trillium Vision Care, we proudly participate and will be thrilled to help you set up your assessment. Simply reach out to us today to learn more and set up your appointment.
