Pediatric Exams

A comprehensive eye exam includes testing and evaluation of visual skills (function, performance, etc. In the absence of complete testing, common pediatric vision problems can go undetected, and, in some cases, can be misdiagnosed as a learning disability or behavioral problem. This page lists some of the visual skills which need to be evaluated as part of a child's comprehensive vision examination.

Norwich Ophthalmology Group provides comprehensive pediatric exams to ensure that your children have the visual resources they need to grow and develop normally. The American Optometric Association (AOA) recommends that children have their eyes examined by an eye doctor at 6 months, 3 years, at the start of school, and then at least every 2 years following. If there are any signs that there may be a vision problem or if the child has certain risk factors (such as developmental delays, premature birth, crossed or lazy eyes, family history or previous injuries) more frequent exams are recommended. A child that wears eyeglasses or contact lenses should have his or her eyes examined yearly.  

Pediatric Optometry is a specialty that includes Developmental and Behavioral eye care. From birth the eye is constantly changing and developing and will continue to grow throughout life. However, during the first 20 years, the eye grows at an incredible speed. Pediatric eye doctors are trained in the normal changes that would occur at each phase of development. There are many factors that could derail normal development, high prescriptions, eye misalignment, focusing problems, and pediatric eye diseases. Any of these problems can cause difficulty with learning, reading, concentration, and even give the same symptoms as Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD, or ADHD). Common complaints for a child with these developmental deficiencies would be problems in school, ADD, losing place when reading, headaches, and avoidance of reading or near work.

Dr. Goldstein has been practicing in this type of eye care for over 18 years. New England College of Optometry and Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Allied Health Services Department of Optometry recognized Dr. Goldstein’s specialty and referred physicians in the clinical externship to him for training.