As the back-to-school season approaches in Huntsville, parents are checking off supply lists, organizing routines, and getting their kids ready for another year of growth and learning. However, one important thing often gets left off that list: an eye exam. 

At Bailey Cove Eye Care, we offer pediatric eye exams in Huntsville for children six months and older. A comprehensive exam can catch problems that classroom screenings might miss, setting your child up for success in and out of the classroom. 

In this blog, we’ll explore why regular pediatric eye exams matter, how often children should visit the eye doctor, and signs your child might have a vision problem. 

The importance of regular pediatric eye exams 

Clear vision is critical for your child’s academic success. From reading and screen time to sports and classroom learning, your child’s eyes are working hard all day long. 

Approximately 80% of classroom learning is visual¹, and 1 in 4 children has a vision problem that requires treatment². Many vision problems go unnoticed without regular eye exams, especially since kids often assume their eyesight is normal. They might adapt or avoid tasks, which can impact their school performance and confidence. 

A comprehensive eye exam allows our optometrists to assess how well your child sees. It also evaluates how their eyes work together and focus at different distances. 

School vision screenings vs. pediatric eye exams: What’s the difference? 

Many schools offer basic vision screenings. These are quick and helpful, but limited in what they detect. In fact, school vision screenings miss up to 75% of children with vision problems³.  

Here’s how they compare to comprehensive eye exams: 

School vision screening 

• A quick check, usually for distance vision only 
• Often done by a school nurse or volunteer 
• May miss issues like eye teaming, depth perception, and focusing 

Comprehensive pediatric eye exam 

• Performed by an optometrist 
• Evaluates near and distance vision, eye tracking, focus, and more 
• Detects conditions like amblyopia (lazy eye), strabismus (crossed eyes), and binocular vision problems 

At Bailey Cove Eye Care, we tailor each eye exam to your child’s developmental stage and unique needs. 

Signs of vision problems in children 

Children may not complain about their eyesight, but certain behaviors can suggest a vision issue. Look for: 

• Squinting or covering one eye 
• Head tilting 
• Sitting too close to the TV or holding books/screens close 
• Headaches or frequent eye rubbing 
• Avoiding reading or homework 
• Losing their place while reading 
• Difficulty concentrating or falling behind in school 
• An eye turning inward or outward 

If you notice any of these signs, schedule an exam to rule out or address visual problems early. 

How often should children see an eye doctor? 

The American Optometric Association provides clear guidelines for pediatric eye exams⁴: 

• First exam between 6–12 months: Your child’s first eye exam to detect early development issues 
• Another exam between 3–5 years: Checks vision development and eye alignment 
• Before first grade: Ensures visual readiness for school 
• School-aged children: Every year to detect problems early and ensure an up-to-date prescription for eyeglasses or contact lenses

Some children may need more frequent visits, especially those with risk factors like a family history of eye conditions, developmental delays, or symptoms of myopia (nearsightedness). 

Why choose Bailey Cove Eye Care for your child? 

Families in Huntsville trust Bailey Cove Eye Care for professional, thoughtful care that supports both short-term vision and long-term eye health. 

We welcome kids as young as six months old for eye exams, and our optometrists take the time to make the experience engaging and stress-free. Here’s what sets us apart: 

Durable and stylish eyewear 

If your child needs vision correction, we offer a wide selection of children’s eyewear that’s both fun and functional. Our team will help your child find eyeglasses they’ll feel good wearing. 

Contact lens options for kids 

For older children or teens who are active in sports or don’t like wearing glasses, we provide contact lens exams and a range of contact lenses. 

Myopia management for growing eyes 

If your child is nearsighted, our myopia management programs can help slow myopia progression and reduce the long-term risk of serious eye conditions. Treatments may include special lenses or lifestyle recommendations. 

Conveniently located near local schools

 We’re located just minutes from schools like Mountain Gap Elementary, Challenger Elementary School, Challenger Middle School, and Weatherly Heights Elementary, making it easy to fit eye care into your family’s routine. 

Schedule your child’s back-to-school eye exam before school starts 

Supporting your child’s vision is one of the best ways to support their learning and overall well-being. Eye exams before the school year give them the visual foundation they need to thrive in class, sports, and daily activities. 

Whether your child is starting kindergarten or heading into middle school, schedule their eye exam with Bailey Cove Eye Care. Appointments fill up quickly this time of year, so be sure to book early to get a time that works for your schedule. 

Schedule an appointment online or call our office today to get started. 

References: 

1. Dudovitz, R. N., Izadpanah, N., Chung, P. J., & Slusser, W. (2016). Parent, Teacher, and Student Perspectives on How Corrective Lenses Improve Child Wellbeing and School Function. Maternal and Child Health Journal. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10995-015-1882-z 

2. (2022, August 18). Keeping children’s vision in focus. American Optometric Association Website. Retrieved July 21, 2025, from https://www.aoa.org/news/clinical-eye-care/public-health/keeping-childrens-vision-in-focus 

3. (2019, July 24). Championing children’s eye care. American Optometric Association. Retrieved July 21, 2025, from https://www.aoa.org/news/inside-optometry/aoa-news/championing-childrens-eye-care 

4. (n.d.). Comprehensive eye exams. American Optometric Association Website. Retrieved July 21, 2025, from https://www.aoa.org/healthy-eyes/caring-for-your-eyes/eye-exams