Children's & Pediatric Eye Care in Ottawa
Nearly 25% of school-age children have vision problems — and the earlier they're caught, the less they affect your child's learning, confidence, and development. Our optometrists provide gentle pediatric eye exams for kids of all ages, from infants to teens, and make them comfortable and even fun.
Three locations · 75,000+ patients served · Expert care since 1987
About
Children's Eye Care
Did you know that nearly 25% of school-age children have vision problems?
Despite yearly eye exams being covered by OHIP for children up to 19 years old, many preschool and school age children are not receiving adequate professional eye and vision care.
The earlier a vision problem is diagnosed and treated, the less negative impact it will have on a child's development. Undetected and untreated vision problems can interfere with learning, participation in sports and other childhood activities.
Pediatric eye exams for infants, school-age children, and teens
Our optometrists provide pediatric eye exams for children of all ages. We're equipped to examine infants and school-age children and ensure kids feel comfortable and have a great experience! Exams include patient and family history, visual acuity measurement, assessment of refractive status, evaluation of ocular motility, binocular vision and accommodative function, and ocular health examination. Optomap imaging is offered at a reduced fee for children ages 7 to 19.
What to expect at the exam.
We see many children at our clinic and often schedule entire families together. Your child will look at different pictures, letters or numbers, and may wear special glasses during tests. The optometrist will use special lights to look at their eyes. Smaller children are welcome to sit on their parent's lap, and children can watch a movie while the optometrist examines their eyes.
Signs your child may have a vision problem
Children often don't realize they aren't seeing clearly, so it helps to watch for the signs. Book an exam if you notice your child sitting very close to the TV or holding books and screens close, squinting, tilting their head or covering one eye, getting frequent headaches or rubbing their eyes, losing their place when reading or avoiding near work, or showing a turned or wandering eye. Early treatment makes a real difference, so it's always worth having their eyes checked.
Children's myopia (nearsightedness) and how we slow it
Nearsightedness is becoming more common in children, and it usually worsens as they grow. Beyond updating glasses, we offer clinically proven myopia control — options like MiSight contact lenses and MiYOSmart lenses — that can slow how quickly it progresses and protect your child's long-term eye health.
Frequently asked questions about
Children's Eye Care
The Canadian Association of Optometrists recommends a first eye exam between 6 and 9 months of age, then annually from age 2 onward.
Yes. OHIP covers one complete eye exam per year for children 19 years of age or younger, as well as follow-up visits.
Not necessarily. Seeing the optometrist does not mean they are getting glasses. The exam helps identify any underlying vision conditions early, when they're most treatable.
Sometimes drops are required during the exam. The reasons will be discussed with parents first, and often a second visit is scheduled when drops are needed.
Yes — our optometrists across all three Ottawa clinics regularly provide pediatric eye exams, from a baby's first check at 6–9 months through the school years and the teens. We adapt each exam to your child's age to keep it comfortable and positive.
Meet the team behind your care
Our team across Vision Care Ottawa includes optometrists with specific expertise. When you book, we'll match you with the doctor who best fits your needs.
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Your next step is clear
Book an appointment at any of our three Ottawa locations. Your eyes are in good hands.