If your child is squinting, coming home with headaches, avoiding reading, or struggling in school, it’s natural to wonder whether something might be wrong. A pediatric eye exam helps provide clarity—and peace of mind—often before your child even realizes they aren’t seeing their best.
A pediatric eye exam is a comprehensive medical evaluation of a child’s vision, eye health, focusing ability, and visual development performed by a licensed optometrist. At EyeMax Family Vision in Frisco and Mesquite, TX, we detect early vision problems, monitor myopia progression, and ensure children see clearly for learning, sports, and everyday life.
We know bringing your child to the eye doctor can feel like a big step. Our goal is to make the experience calm, positive, and reassuring—for both you and your child.
We provide pediatric eye exams at both our Frisco and Mesquite locations. If you’re searching for a children’s eye doctor near you, our team is ready to help. Serving families across Frisco, Mesquite, and nearby communities with modern technology and a calm, kid-friendly approach.
Two Convenient Locations for Pediatric Eye Care
We provide pediatric eye exams at both EyeMax Family Vision locations. If you’re searching for a children’s eye doctor near you, choose the location that’s most convenient:
- Eye Doctor in Frisco, TX — for families in Frisco, Plano, McKinney, Prosper, and surrounding areas.
- Eye Doctor in Mesquite, TX — for families in Mesquite, Garland, Sunnyvale, and East Dallas.
Not sure which location to pick? Call us at (972) 372-0333 and we’ll help find the best fit.
When Should Your Child Have Their First Eye Exam?
If you’re wondering when to schedule a children’s eye exam, the short answer is: sooner than most parents think. Vision develops fast in the early years, and small issues can quietly affect reading, attention, and confidence.
Most children should have their first comprehensive eye exam between ages 3 and 5, then annually during school years—or sooner if you notice symptoms like squinting, headaches, frequent eye rubbing, or trouble focusing. School vision screenings are helpful, but they don’t replace a full pediatric eye exam.
Common “Right Now” Signs Your Child May Need an Eye Exam
- Squinting, sitting close to screens, or holding books very close
- Headaches, eye strain, or tired eyes—especially after school
- Skipping lines while reading or losing place on the page
- Short attention span for near work (reading, homework, tablets)
- Frequent eye rubbing or blinking
- Tilting the head, closing one eye, or turning the face to see
- Complaints that words look blurry, “moving,” or double
Ages & Stages: A Simple Schedule Parents Can Follow
- Ages 3–5: First comprehensive children’s eye exam (earlier if symptoms show up).
- Elementary school: Yearly exams to support reading, classroom learning, and early myopia changes.
- Middle & high school: Yearly exams as screen time increases and prescriptions can shift quickly.
Here’s the part most families don’t hear enough: a child can be “fine” at home and still be working twice as hard to see clearly at school. That’s why we recommend proactive exams—especially if there’s a family history of nearsightedness (myopia).
If your child is squinting, complaining of headaches, struggling in school, or simply due for a routine check, a pediatric eye exam can catch issues early—often before your child realizes anything is wrong.
Schedule a Children’s Eye Exam
Do Kids Need an Eye Exam If They Passed a School Vision Screening?
This is one of the most common questions parents ask—and the answer may surprise you.
Yes. School vision screenings only check basic distance vision and can miss up to 60% of common childhood eye problems. A comprehensive pediatric eye exam evaluates eye health, focusing ability, tracking, depth perception, and early signs of conditions like amblyopia or myopia that screenings often overlook.
What School Vision Screenings Typically Check
- Distance clarity (can your child read the eye chart?)
- Obvious signs of significant vision loss
School screenings are helpful—but they’re only part of the story. Many parents are surprised to learn how much they don’t test.
What a Comprehensive Pediatric Eye Exam Evaluates
- Eye health (retina, optic nerve, internal structures)
- Near vision and focusing ability
- Eye tracking and coordination
- Depth perception
- Early myopia progression
- Strabismus (eye turn) and amblyopia (lazy eye)
- Digital eye strain from tablets and devices
A child can pass a school screening and still struggle with reading fluency, attention, or headaches caused by subtle focusing or coordination issues.
That’s why families searching for a children’s eye doctor in Frisco or Mesquite often choose a full pediatric eye exam instead of relying solely on school testing.
Why Early Detection Matters
Many childhood vision conditions are easier to correct when caught early. Untreated issues can affect:
- Reading comprehension
- Classroom confidence
- Sports performance
- Long-term visual development
At EyeMax Family Vision, we provide comprehensive pediatric eye exams in Frisco and Mesquite designed to detect vision problems early and protect your child’s long-term eye health.
What Happens During a Pediatric Eye Exam?
If it’s your child’s first eye exam, it’s completely normal to have questions—or for your child to feel a little unsure. The good news: pediatric eye exams are designed to be kid-friendly, low-stress, and age-appropriate. We can assess vision even if your child doesn’t know letters yet. Pediatric eye exams follow the same comprehensive standards as our comprehensive eye exams, with additional testing tailored specifically to children and developing vision.
A pediatric eye exam checks more than “can your child see the chart.” We evaluate eye health, focusing, eye teaming, tracking, depth perception, and prescription needs—because these are the issues that most often affect learning, comfort, and confidence.
Step-by-Step: What We Check
- Vision clarity (near and far): How clearly your child sees up close and at distance.
- Refraction (prescription check): Whether glasses could improve clarity and reduce eye strain.
- Eye alignment and teaming: How well both eyes work together.
- Eye tracking: How smoothly your child’s eyes follow a target—important for reading.
- Focusing ability: Whether your child can comfortably shift focus between near and far.
- Depth perception: Visual skills that impact sports, coordination, and everyday activities.
- Eye health evaluation: Screening the overall health of your child’s eyes and identifying concerns early.
What Makes a Pediatric Eye Exam Different From a Regular Eye Exam?
Kids aren’t just “small adults.” Their vision is still developing, and small problems can show up as big frustrations—like avoiding reading, losing place on the page, or headaches after school. A pediatric-focused exam looks specifically at development, comfort, and the visual skills children rely on most in school.
How Long Does a Children’s Eye Exam Take?
Most pediatric eye exams take about 30–45 minutes, depending on your child’s age, symptoms, and whether we’re checking for a new prescription or monitoring changes like myopia progression.
For older children and teens interested in contact lenses, we can also evaluate candidacy during the exam. Learn more about our contact lens exams.
What Should Parents Bring?
- Your child’s current glasses (if they have them)
- Any contact lenses and contact lens box (for older kids/teens)
- A list of medications and any relevant medical history
- Your vision and medical insurance cards (if applicable)
- Notes from school or teachers if concerns were mentioned
If you’re looking for a trusted children’s eye doctor in Frisco or Mesquite, our team at EyeMax Family Vision will walk you through every step and explain findings in plain English—so you leave with a clear plan and confidence.
Common Vision Problems in Children We Detect Early
Many childhood vision problems develop quietly. Kids often assume the way they see is normal—so they rarely complain. That’s why early detection through comprehensive pediatric eye exams is so important. The good news is that most childhood vision problems are highly treatable—especially when identified early.
Children can pass a school vision screening and still have focusing, tracking, or coordination issues that affect reading, comfort, and confidence. Early diagnosis makes treatment easier and more effective.
Myopia (Nearsightedness)
We monitor myopia progression closely because prescriptions can change rapidly during growth years. If your child’s nearsightedness is worsening, we also offer myopia management treatment options designed to slow progression and protect long-term eye health.
Early intervention is especially important because childhood myopia often progresses quickly during school years.
Amblyopia (Lazy Eye)
Amblyopia occurs when one eye does not develop normal vision. It often goes unnoticed without a comprehensive exam. Early treatment is critical—especially before age 8—when the visual system is still developing.
Strabismus (Eye Turn)
If one eye turns inward, outward, upward, or downward, it can affect depth perception and long-term visual development. Early evaluation improves outcomes and may prevent permanent vision loss.
Astigmatism
Astigmatism causes blurred or distorted vision at all distances. Children with astigmatism may experience headaches, eye strain, or difficulty focusing on schoolwork.
Eye Teaming & Tracking Problems
These issues don’t always cause blurry vision—but they can cause reading frustration, skipping lines, losing place, or avoiding homework. These subtle visual skills are not tested during school screenings.
Digital Eye Strain
With increased tablet and screen use, children may experience dry eyes, headaches, and fatigue. Pediatric eye exams allow us to evaluate how digital habits may be impacting comfort and focus.
At EyeMax Family Vision, we provide comprehensive children’s eye exams in Frisco and Mesquite designed to catch these conditions early—before they impact learning, sports performance, or long-term eye health.
Trusted Pediatric Eye Care in Frisco and Mesquite
Choosing the right children’s eye doctor is about more than prescriptions—it’s about trust, comfort, and knowing your child feels safe. Parents want more than a quick prescription—they want answers, reassurance, and a team that understands how vision impacts learning and confidence.
At EyeMax Family Vision, we provide comprehensive pediatric eye exams at both our Frisco and Mesquite locations. Families throughout Collin County and East Dallas trust us because we combine modern diagnostic technology with a calm, child-friendly approach.
Why Parents Choose EyeMax for Pediatric Eye Exams
- Kid-friendly exam process designed for different ages and attention spans
- Advanced imaging technology to evaluate eye health thoroughly
- Clear explanations for parents — no confusing medical jargon
- Personalized treatment plans based on your child’s needs
- Two convenient locations in Frisco and Mesquite
Serving Families Across the Area
Our Frisco location serves families in Frisco, Plano, McKinney, Prosper, and surrounding communities. Our Mesquite office welcomes families from Mesquite, Garland, Sunnyvale, and East Dallas.
If you’re searching for a children’s eye doctor near you, we make it simple to schedule at the location most convenient for your family.
Visit Our Frisco Eye Doctor Location
Visit Our Mesquite Eye Doctor Location
A Focus on Long-Term Vision Development
We don’t just check vision for today. Pediatric eye exams allow us to monitor visual development year after year—especially as screen time increases and myopia becomes more common in school-aged children.
Our goal is simple: help your child see clearly, comfortably, and confidently—both in the classroom and beyond.
Schedule a Children’s Eye Exam Near You
If your child is due for a check-up, struggling with headaches, squinting, sitting too close to screens, or having trouble with reading and focus, a pediatric eye exam can give you clarity fast.
We provide children’s and pediatric eye exams at both our Frisco and Mesquite locations. Choose the location that’s most convenient, and our team will take care of the rest.
Choose Your Location
Pediatric Eye Exams in Frisco, TX
For families in Frisco, Plano, McKinney, Prosper, and nearby areas.
Pediatric Eye Exams in Mesquite, TX
For families in Mesquite, Garland, Sunnyvale, and East Dallas.
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Schedule Your Child’s Eye Exam
Prefer to talk to someone first? Call your nearest location and we’ll help you find an appointment time that works for your family.
What to Expect After You Book
- We’ll confirm your appointment details and answer any quick questions
- You’ll get clear guidance on what to bring (glasses, insurance cards, notes from school if relevant)
- During the exam, we’ll explain findings in plain English and recommend next steps only if needed
Parents often tell us the best part is peace of mind—knowing their child’s eyes are healthy and their vision supports learning, sports, and everyday life.
There’s nothing more important than your child’s well-being. We’re honored to partner with families in Frisco and Mesquite to support healthy vision at every stage of childhood.
Pediatric Eye Exam FAQs
How often should children have an eye exam?
Most children should have a comprehensive eye exam once per year during school-age years. If your child has a prescription, symptoms, or a family history of eye conditions like myopia, your optometrist may recommend more frequent monitoring.
At what age should a child have their first eye exam?
Children should have their first comprehensive eye exam between ages 3 and 5, or sooner if symptoms appear. Early exams help detect vision problems before they affect learning and development.
Does insurance cover pediatric eye exams?
Many vision plans cover routine children’s eye exams annually. Some medical plans may apply if there are symptoms or medical concerns. Our Frisco and Mesquite teams can help verify your benefits before your appointment.
How long does a pediatric eye exam take?
Most children’s eye exams take about 30–45 minutes. The exact time depends on your child’s age, cooperation level, and whether additional testing is needed.
What if my child is nervous about the eye exam?
That’s completely normal. Pediatric eye exams are designed to be calm, age-appropriate, and interactive. We adjust testing based on your child’s comfort level and explain each step in simple terms.
Can too much screen time affect my child’s vision?
Extended screen use can contribute to digital eye strain, dry eyes, and worsening nearsightedness in some children. Regular pediatric eye exams allow us to monitor changes and provide guidance on healthy visual habits.
Is a school vision screening enough?
No. School screenings check basic distance vision but do not evaluate eye health, focusing, or tracking skills. A comprehensive pediatric eye exam provides a full medical evaluation of your child’s visual system.