children's eye tests
It is important to make sure that every child has good vision. Many vision problems begin at an early age and children don't always communicate if they are having difficulty seeing. According to the Eyecare Trust, upto 1 million children in the UK currently have an undetected vision problem which can have a major impact on the child's education and life. Over 90% of children visit a dentist regularly whilst only 53% of children have ever had an eye examination.
We are proud at Ellis Bass to have one of the only 'optometrist led' children's eye clinics in Barkingside. Our resident optometrist, Elyshah ('Elly'), has a keen interest in childrens eyecare and holds a regular children's only clinic. In fact, she also works in the Paediatric eye clinic at Queen's Hospital in Romford. The clinic is reserved specifically for children's eye examination appointments. There is no minimum age limit and Elly often sees babies in the clinic as well as older children. Having a young family herself, Elly is experienced in making the eye examination fun - for both the children and the parents!! Eye examinations can be nerve racking for all and we aim to reassure you and put your mind at rest as much as we can.
Many parents still assume that their child will have their vision checked at school, regardless of whether this actually happens or not. Vision screening provision is patchy - many areas do not provide it. Even where vision screening is provided in school, there are many conditions which, although may cause significant problems to a child and their ability to learn, will not be picked up at screening. The sooner that vision problems are detected, the better the outcome. Many childhood conditions, such as lazy eye and squint, can be treated if they are picked up early - as the eye and visual system are actively developing during the school years. If vision problems are identified and treated, it can make a difference that lasts a lifetime.