In pediatric health, vision often holds an essential yet underestimated place in a child’s development. Many parents think a standard vision screening during visits to the pediatrician is enough. However, comprehensive eye exams are crucial for detecting eye conditions that standard screenings might miss.
At IlluminEyes Vision Care in Nashua, we offer InfantSEE®, a free public health program to ensure that eye and vision care becomes integral to infant wellness.
What is InfantSEE®?
InfantSEE®, developed by the American Optometric Association (AOA), is a groundbreaking program that offers a one-time comprehensive eye assessment for infants.
This initiative is for children between the ages of 6 and 12 months to provide early detection of potential eye and vision problems at no cost, regardless of family income or access to insurance coverage.
The Importance of Early Pediatric Eye Exams
The first few months of a child’s life are a pivotal period for visual development. Untreated eye conditions can lead to serious vision and developmental issues, some of which might not be reversible if not addressed promptly.
Early intervention allows us to prevent or minimize many visual problems and the developmental delays they're associated with, ensuring that children have the best possible opportunity to develop visually and reach their full potential.
What to Expect During an InfantSEE® Assessment
InfantSEE assessments are tailored to the unique needs of infants and differ from standard eye exams designed for adults or older children. Our pediatric optometrists at IlluminEyes Vision Care evaluate infants' visual status and eye health, allowing us to ensure that they have a strong foundation for learning.
During the assessment, the optometrist may:
- Check for excessive or unequal amounts of nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism.
- Evaluate eye movements and how well the eyes work together (also known as visual skills).
- Examine eye health problems.
These assessments are key for detecting conditions such as strabismus (crossed eyes), amblyopia (lazy eye), and other eye problems that could lead to vision loss if not treated appropriately and timely.
How to Participate in InfantSEE®
Participating in InfantSEE is straightforward. Parents or guardians simply need to visit the InfantSEE website to find a participating optometrist in their area and schedule an appointment. Alternatively, call us or request an appointment on our website.
Remember that while the assessment is free, it does not replace regular, comprehensive eye exams and vision assessments throughout a child’s life.
Schedule a Free InfantSEE® Pediatric Eye Exam in New Hampshire
Parents and caregivers are encouraged to use this program by scheduling an appointment with our pediatric eye doctors at IlluminEyes Vision Care in Nashua.