Eye Exams for the Whole Family

We are equipped and ready to support the visual needs of all ages!

Why Children Need Eye Exams

Eye exams are vital to health — and learning! Reading, focusing, and fine motor acquisition may be difficult if your child has a binocular vision condition or needs glasses.

Approximately 25% of school-aged children need vision correction.

Comprehensive eye exams for kids allow us to detect vision problems as early as possible, so children can do what they do best: learn, play, and thrive.

Child wearing durable eyewear.

Accessible Eye Care

Our team is equally committed to providing accessible care for all; we are well-versed in working with children and adults with diverse physical, mental, and emotional needs.

Every patient and family is entitled to a positive experience. We are committed to creating that for you and the ones you love. We also offer free onsite parking and a fully accessible building.

What to Expect

Finding time and juggling schedules can be hectic; we strive to ensure eye exams in the Waterloo Region are as smooth and seamless as possible.

  • When You Arrive

    Expect a positive, calm experience. Our dedicated Kid Zone is designed with our young patients in mind.

    After you check in, your child can explore engaging art, books, and educational toys. There is ample seating for adults.

  • In Your Appointment

    During the appointment, we begin with a health history and ask about any previous eye problems, treatments, medications, allergies, and family history of ocular disease.

    This is a great opportunity for us to learn about your child and to ensure they are comfortable. We proceed by carefully assessing the child's prescription, eye muscles, and ocular health.

  • Throughout the Experience

    Our children’s eye exams also accommodate parents and caregivers.

    Insight Eye Care’s helpful staff are happy to assist you throughout the process, from convenient scheduling and follow-ups to assistance in the on-site optical boutique.

Get all the details on children’s eye exams in this helpful blog post.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Some children exhibit signs of eye trouble, including:

    • Difficulty concentrating

    • Poor tracking or words moving on the page when reading

    • Frequent headaches and/or eye rubbing

    • Delayed motor development

    • Excessive blinking

    • Inability to maintain eye contact

    • Behind in reading and/or writing at school

    Other kids may present no outward signals of vision problems but cannot see clearly enough to learn basic skills. Still others do not have the verbal ability to tell you that their world is blurry. If you have any concerns, please book an appointment.

  • We recommend an initial eye exam at 6 months of age, followed by annual exams (which are covered by OHIP for ages 19 and under).

    Comprehensive exams help us determine if your child’s eyes are growing normally and to intervene if there are challenges. Insight Eye Care has the technology, equipment, and expertise to support all ages.

  • We provide a safe and caring environment to support patients of all ages and abilities. We specifically cater each exam to meet the unique needs of the individual.

    The specifics of their exam will depend on a number of factors, including your child’s age and stage. Our friendly and knowledgeable staff are here to make the experience at Insight positive for all children and their caregivers.

  • For children, eye exams can be a source of anxiety. The professionals at Insight Eye Care specialize in delivering compassionate care in a calm environment.

    Working as a team with parents and caregivers, we strive to put our patients at ease and make visits stress-free and even fun.

  • Annual eye examinations are covered through OHIP for all eligible children ages 0-19.

    After having their eye exam at our office, all children registered in junior or senior kindergarten who require glasses are eligible for free prescription glasses through the Ontario Association of Optometrists Eye See Eye Learn (ESEL) program that we offer at Insight!

Technology

At Insight Eye Care, we use the latest state-of-the-art technology during your eye exam. This helps your optometrist monitor your eye health more precisely and aids in disease prevention and treatment.

MYAH machine
MYAH machine

MYAH: Measuring Axial Length

We use an instrument called MYAH to measure the length of your eye, map the surface of your eye, photograph the anterior (front) segment, and perform multiple tests to assess dry eye.

This device supports the detection, monitoring, and treatment of myopia (nearsightedness) and other conditions that impact the eye’s surface. It is also integral to the proper fitting of specialty contact lenses. Myopia management is particularly important in children; learn more at our Myopace Clinic.

Adorable, Durable eyewear: Rolf Eye Wear

Adorable, Durable Children’s Eyewear

Our onsite and online boutique carries glasses for every age and fit. Our “kid’s package” offers reduced pricing and a robust warranty for children 15 and under.

Our fun and fashionable options will encourage your child to love their glasses.

We keep a large selection of durable options, because kids will be kids!

Our Optometrists

Our knowledgeable and friendly optometrists make your eye health the number one priority by conducting thorough examinations and considering the specific visual needs of each patient.

Book an Appointment

Insights

Get the latest expert thoughts and helpful tips from our team of optometrists and our optician.