As parents, we all want to give our children the best start in life. One of the most important — and sometimes overlooked — parts of their health is their vision. Good eyesight is critical for learning, development, and confidence. At Eyes on Bridgwater, our optometrists are here to guide you through why early and regular eye exams matter and what you need to know as a parent.
How Often Should Kids Have Eye Exams?
According to the Canadian Association of Optometrists (CAO), children should have their first eye exam at 6 months of age, again at 3 years, and then every year after starting school. Regular visits allow us to catch and treat eye problems early — before they affect learning and development.
In Manitoba, children 18 and under are covered by Manitoba Health for one full eye exam per year. This means families can access comprehensive care without worrying about basic exam costs.
Conditions We Look for in Kids
1. Amblyopia (Lazy Eye)
- Amblyopia is reduced vision in one eye, often with no obvious symptoms.
- Children won’t know something is wrong — which is why routine exams are so important.
- If caught early, amblyopia can be treated successfully. If not, the vision loss can become permanent.
2. Myopia (Nearsightedness)
- Myopia is one of the fastest-growing childhood vision problems. Kids may struggle to see the board at school or signs at a distance.
- Today, we can do more than just correct myopia with glasses — we can slow down its progression. This is called myopia control.
- At Eyes on Bridgwater, Dr. Michael Nelson and Dr. Selena Friesen are leaders in this field. They regularly lecture to other optometrists on myopia management.
- We offer spectacle lenses, contact lenses, ortho-K, and low-dose atropine therapy as options for myopia control.
Beyond Vision — Other Reasons for Children’s Eye Exams
- School readiness: Vision problems can look like learning or attention issues. An eye exam ensures your child is ready to learn.
- Detecting eye diseases: Retinal photos and advanced scans help us find conditions early.
- Eye coordination & focusing: Kids need both eyes working together for reading, sports, and classroom performance.
- Infections & emergencies: Our optometrists can often treat pink eye and other infections faster and easier than going to a pediatrician or walk-in clinic.
Eye See… Eye Learn Program in Manitoba
We are proud to be part of the Eye See… Eye Learn program, offered by the Manitoba Association of Optometrists. Dr. Selena Friesen, from our clinic, actually chairs this committee.
Through this program:
- Every kindergarten child in Manitoba who needs glasses receives their first pair free.
- It ensures children start school with clear vision and the best chance to succeed.
Why School Screenings Are Not Enough
School or mobile vision screenings may seem convenient, but they are not a replacement for a full eye exam. Screenings:
- Do not test all aspects of vision.
- Cannot diagnose conditions like amblyopia or early eye disease.
- Do not provide a treatment plan or ongoing care.
We strongly recommend skipping school screenings and booking a comprehensive eye exam with your optometrist instead.
Recommended Extra Testing
At Eyes on Bridgwater, we suggest additional technology to give parents peace of mind:
- Optomap Retinal Photos ($45): Helps detect early signs of eye disease.
- Axial Length Measurements ($30): Tracks eye growth, critical in monitoring myopia progression.
For children with myopia, axial length should be measured every 3–6 months for the best care.
Why Choose Eyes on Bridgwater?
- Children’s optometrist Bridgwater Winnipeg: Conveniently located in your neighborhood.
- Kid-friendly care: We create a comfortable environment for toddlers to teens.
- Myopia specialists: Dr. Nelson and Dr. Friesen are recognized across Canada for advancing myopia control.
- Comprehensive services: From routine eye exams to treating infections, we’re here for your family.
Final Takeaway
Children’s vision is too important to leave to chance. With yearly eye exams starting at 6 months of age, you can help protect your child from vision problems that may affect school, sports, and daily life.
At Eyes on Bridgwater, we are here to support families in Bridgwater, Winnipeg, with full pediatric eye care, myopia control, and Manitoba’s Eye See… Eye Learn program.
📞 Call us today to book your child’s eye exam and give them the clear vision they deserve.
