Child Eye Care
Exceptional vision care is every child's right. We prioritise the early identification and management of visual issues in young ones, empowering them to explore and understand their world with clarity.
The importance of child eye care
Your child's academic and holistic development is intrinsically linked to their visual ability. Children lean heavily on visual stimuli for their learning process, primarily until age 12. Many visual issues remain concealed, since children generally have no reference point to judge their own clarity of vision.
Without overt signs, complaints of visual strain, recurrent headaches or academic hurdles may quietly hold them back. We advocate for a first in-depth examination at around their third birthday, with reviews every two years once school begins, and annually for children already wearing corrective lenses.
Signs your child may have eye complications
Children rarely say "I can't see properly." They simply adapt. These everyday behaviours are often the first clue that something needs attention.
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01
Avoiding Distance
Hesitation to focus on far-off objects or vistas, or a lack of interest in things across the room.
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02
Sitting Too Close
A tendency to sit extremely close to screens, to sit near the front of the class, or to hold books and toys close to their eyes.
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03
Squinting & Light Sensitivity
Frequent squinting, rubbing of the eyes, or a heightened sensitivity to bright light.
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04
Hand–Eye Coordination
Difficulty coordinating vision with movement, struggling to catch a ball, or bumping into things.
Designed to put young ones at ease
A child's first eye test sets the tone for every one that follows. We keep it unhurried, familiar and free of pressure:
- No reading required. Picture charts and the "rotating E" test work for pre-readers.
- Nothing uncomfortable: the assessment is gentle, and we explain each step before it happens.
- Parents stay in the room throughout, so your child always has a familiar face nearby.
- Findings are explained to you in plain language, with clear next steps if correction is needed.
What does a child vision assessment include?
Within this review, our adept optometrist will gently examine each aspect of your child's sight, at their pace, and in a way that feels like play rather than a test.
- Pupil responsiveness to varying levels of light.
- The eyes' ability to track objects and sustain focus.
- The wellness of the retina using advanced retinoscopic methods.
- For younger children, playful icons and designs replace the conventional alphabet chart. For those still learning their letters, the "rotating E" test lets them simply point out which way the letter faces.
Upon conclusion of the review, we'll advise whether corrective spectacles are right for your child. If so, we suggest annual follow-ups, since a child's visual needs can change often.
HPCSA-recognised dyslexia screening
Early identification allows the right support to begin sooner.
Jandri Hubner has successfully completed professional training through the Stark Griffin Dyslexia Academy, a programme recognised by the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA). This specialised training equips healthcare professionals with the knowledge and practical skills to identify the signs and indicators of dyslexia through evidence-based screening methods.
If you or your child are experiencing persistent reading, spelling or literacy challenges, professional dyslexia screening can provide valuable answers and practical recommendations. Early identification allows appropriate support to begin sooner, helping learners build confidence and reach their full potential.
Give your child the gift of clear sight
Gentle, playful and thorough, our child eye examinations are designed to put young ones at ease.