

Calm, reassuring eye care for children
Many parents bring their child for an eye examination simply to check that everything is developing as it should.
At Ladybrook Opticians, children’s eye examinations are designed to feel calm, friendly, and unrushed.
We take time to help children feel comfortable, explain things in simple terms, and support parents with clear, practical guidance — without making appointments feel stressful or overwhelming.
Children don’t usually tell us if something isn’t quite right with their vision — not because they’re hiding anything, but because they assume what they see is normal.
Some parents notice small things over time, such as:

Complaining of
Headaches

Being Unusually
Clumsy

Struggling with
Reading or homework

Squinting, tilting their head,
or covering one eye

Sitting very close
to screens

Rubbing their
eyes frequently
None of these automatically mean there is a problem. But if anything has caught your attention, an eye examination can help clarify whether everything is developing as expected.
If you’re unsure, we’re always happy to advise.
We understand that clinical environments can feel intimidating for children — and for parents too.
Children’s eye examinations at Ladybrook are structured to feel relaxed and reassuring. We take time to build trust, explain what we’re doing in age-appropriate language, and move at a pace that suits the child.
Our focus is on helping children feel safe and comfortable, so appointments feel positive rather than daunting.

If glasses are needed, finding frames a child will actually wear can make all the difference.
We are proud to stock Tomato Glasses, frames designed specifically for children. They’re lightweight, adjustable, and built to stay in place during busy days at school and play.
Parents appreciate their durability and comfort.
Children enjoy choosing colours and styles that feel like them.

With a huge range of colours and styles, we can help your child find a pair they will be excited and proud to wear.

A children’s eye examination looks at more than how clearly your child can see.
It allows us to:
- Check eye health and visual development
- Make sure the eyes are working together comfortably
- Identify anything that may benefit from monitoring
- Reassure you when everything looks as expected
NHS-funded children’s eye examinations at Ladybrook receive the same care, time, and attention as private appointments. Where appropriate, we may use diagnostic tools to support careful assessment and explanation — never as routine add-ons.
Every child deserves the same calm, thorough standard of care.
Some parents notice their child’s glasses prescription changing over time and wonder whether anything can be done.
Short-sightedness (myopia) is common and often develops gradually during childhood. For some children, monitoring is all that’s needed.
For others, additional options may be worth considering.
We offer evidence-based myopia management for children who may benefit, and we always take time to explain what this means, whether it’s appropriate, and what parents can reasonably expect.
There is no pressure to proceed — understanding comes first.
As part of a thorough children’s eye examination, we also check colour vision.
Colour vision differences are more common than many parents realise (8% in boys, girls much less affected at 0.5%) and often don’t cause day-to-day problems.
Where differences are identified, we explain what this means in practical terms and answer any questions you may have.
The aim is understanding and reassurance, not alarm.




When should my child have their first eye test?
We recommend bringing your child for an eye test at any age if you have concerns. Otherwise, regular check-ups every one to two years are ideal, depending on your child's individual needs.
Are children's eye tests free?
Yes, eye examinations are funded by the NHS for all children under 16, and for those aged 16-18 in full-time education.
My child is nervous about the appointment. How do you help?
As parents themselves, our optometrists are incredibly patient and experienced with children. We use child-friendly language and a gentle, reassuring approach, ensuring they feel relaxed and safe.
Book a Children’s Eye Examination
Whether it's for a routine check-up or a specific concern, we're here to provide a calm, reassuring, and stress-free exam.