Overview
A child’s retina and visual field develop rapidly until around 2-3 years old. After this point, it develops more slowly until around 8 years old. Vision screening allows the early identification of problems with vision before development is complete to avoid amblyopia, where the brain does not process inputs from one eye and favours the other.
A summary of some tests is as follows:
| Age | Test | Additional information |
| Within 72 hours of birth and 6-8 weeks old | Red reflex test – to look for cataracts, corneal problems, vitreous opacities Corneal light reflex – to look for squint General inspection | Refer if any abnormalities are present Arrange same-day referral if there is an abnormality in the red reflex as vision can rapidly deteriorate and lead to permanent vision loss if not promptly addressed |
| 4-5 years old | Tests may involve picture or shape tests, matching tests, or Snellen charts |
Additional screens may be performed if there are concerns regarding development, such as at around 1 year or 2-2.5 years old.
Eye checks by optometrists are free for children <16 years old and people <19 years old if in full-time education.
