When Should Children Have Vision and Hearing Screenings?

If you believe your child is struggling with their hearing or vision, Dr. Shanda Morris, Dr. Moria Bush, and Dr. Mark Parrott at A Caring Touch Pediatrics in Lexington, KY, can perform a vision and hearing screening as part of regular wellness checkups to ensure everything is on track. 

Vision and Hearing Screenings: When Do Children Need Them? 

 Vision and hearing health are critical to a child’s quality of life. They can either positively or negatively impact how a child experiences the world around them, how well they do in school, and even how well they communicate with their parents and others. 

Because these aspects are so important, it’s crucial that every child receives vision and hearing screenings regularly. The question is when they should begin. Dr. Morris, Dr. Bush, and Dr. Parrott at A Caring Touch Pediatrics in Lexington, KY, answer this question below. 

Newborns and Babies 

 You might not know it, but your baby receives these screenings before they even leave the hospital after birth. While they can’t yet read eye charts or follow directions for a hearing test, the pediatrician has ways to look for potential issues. These screenings will continue at each of their wellness visits. 

Two Years Old 

 At two years of age, a toddler can respond to sounds. Their pediatrician will begin using more comprehensive hearing tests. If any issues are detected, they may refer you to a specialist for further evaluation. 

Four and Five Years Old 

 Around age four or five, sometimes sooner, your pediatrician will conduct a vision test. Generally, this involves reading an eye chart. There are charts with pictures and other options that a doctor may use if the child cannot yet recognize all the letters. The results of this test may lead to an eye specialist referral. 

Each Year Until Adulthood 

 Your pediatrician will perform vision and hearing screenings at every wellness visit until your child reaches adulthood. These screenings assess how well they see, in addition to vision skills like eye tracking, which can be important for reading, playing sports, and other activities. 

Schedule your child’s vision and hearing screening with Dr. Morris, Dr. Bush, or Dr. Parrott at A Caring Touch Pediatrics in Lexington, KY, by calling (859) 264-0660.