Routine Vision and Hearing Checks
Neurodiversity Hub Wirral
Routine Vision and Hearing Checks
Hearing Tests for Children
Newborn babies and children are offered routine hearing tests. These tests help find any problems early.
Children also have a hearing test at school when they are around 4 to 5 years old.
Serious hearing problems in childhood are not common. But early tests help spot issues so that children can get support as soon as possible.
You can ask for a hearing check at any time if you are worried about your child. Speak to a General Practitioner (GP) or a health visitor.
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Vision Tests for Children
Serious vision problems in childhood are not common. But newborn babies have an eye check soon after birth. Young children are also offered routine eye checks. These checks help find problems early.
Children have vision screening at school when they are around 4 to 5 years old. If they cannot do the test, or do not pass it, they will be sent for a more detailed eye test.
Vision develops most between birth and 2 years old. It keeps developing through the primary school years. If a child needs glasses and this is not picked up, it can affect how their vision develops. This is called amblyopia (sometimes known as a “lazy eye”). It can also affect other areas, such as social communication.
Children can have an eyesight test at any age. They do not need to read or speak for the test. An eyesight test is especially important if your family has a history of eye problems, such as a squint (eyes pointing in different directions) or amblyopia.
If your child cannot manage a test with an optician or optometrist (a trained eye specialist), they can be referred to a hospital eye clinic. There, they may see an orthoptist (a specialist in eye movement and coordination). Hospital clinics have a wider range of tests.
Speak to a GP, optician/optometrist, or health visitor if you are worried about your child’s vision.