Preparing A Child For Their First Trip To An Eye Doctor

If your child's teacher recently informed you that your child is having difficulty seeing work being conducted on a chalkboard in front of the class, you are most likely concerned about their grades as well as the troubles they are experiencing with their vision. Seeing an eye doctor will help in finding out if your child's vision needs to be altered with corrective lenses or if there is a medical issue that needs to be addressed. If your child has never been to an eye doctor in the past, they may be a bit anxious about the appointment to come. Here are some tips you can use to make a trip to the eye doctor comfortable for your child.

Take A Trip To Visit The Eye Doctor In Advance

Going to the facility where the eye exam will be conducted in advance of the actual appointment can be a great way to relax your child when it comes time to have their eyes checked. An advance trip will allow your child to meet those who work in the facility, as well as help your child get used to the surroundings inside of the building where the exam will be conducted. This familiarity will make the real appointment less scary for your child.

Let Your Child Know Perfection Is Not Necessary

Many children get upset when they are not able to read the letter chart they are shown when their eyes are being tested. Letting your child know they do not need to be correct when reading this chart can help to set their mind at ease when they are put up to the task in identifying letters for an eye doctor. Knowing that they do not know need to pretend they can see letters clearly if they cannot will help to make them comfortable in telling the eye doctor they are having difficulty with this portion of their exam.

Make Sure You Can Sit With Your Child

When it comes time for your child's appointment, do not make them go into the exam room on their own unless they feel comfortable doing so. Younger children will be likely to want a parent with them for moral support. Being in the room will also allow you to observe the testing procedures, helping you to understand why your child may be having difficulty seeing in the classroom as a result. You will also be able to ask questions on your child's behalf, taking away the embarrassment of your child needing to speak to the doctor themselves if necessary.

To learn more about eye exams, check out websites like http://allabouteyes.com.


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