There was once a belief that it was not necessary to check a child's vision until school age, but now we understand when a vision problem is identified at an early age, steps can be taken that literally will save a child's sight. The young child cannot always tell you about a vision problem because they don't know how they are supposed to see.
Many times there are no observable signs of inadequate vision.
As long as a child has one good eye with normal eyesight, they can mask the decreased vision in the other eye. All children should have their vision tested at the time they have their annual physical. However, a busy pediatric physician's office may cause a child to be uncooperative, especially if immunizations are given at the same time. When a child is given a vision test at home they are often able to complete the test successfully because they are in a comfortable environment with people they trust. While vision screening is no substitute for a complete eye exam, it can pick up deviations in visual acuity.