At Prairie Eye Care in Edmonton, we know that healthy vision starts early. That’s why we welcome children of all ages—from six months old and up—for comprehensive pediatric eye exams in a warm, kid-friendly environment.
Whether your child is starting preschool or prepping for high school, our experienced team is here to help protect their vision and set them up for success.
We See Kids Starting at 6 Months Old
Yes, really! Prairie Eye Care is one of the few clinics in Edmonton that welcomes infants starting at six months of age. These early exams help us detect:
- Congenital eye conditions
- Eye alignment problems
- Prescription needs (even before a child can talk!)
Early detection can help prevent long-term vision issues like lazy eye or delayed development.
What to Expect at a Pediatric Eye Exam
For new patients, we recommend arriving 10 minutes early to fill out an intake form. Be sure to bring your child’s Alberta Health card, as most children’s exams are fully covered!
Here’s how the appointment typically works:
- Kids under 3 go straight to the doctor for a quick, gentle exam.
- From age 4+, we may try pre-testing like the autorefractor.
- The full eye exam takes about 15–20 minutes, depending on your child’s age and attention span.
We tailor our approach based on your child’s needs—and yes, we make it fun and friendly!
Covered by Alberta Health
One of the best things about pediatric eye exams in Alberta? They're usually covered by Alberta Health Care for kids up to 18. That means no out-of-pocket cost for routine vision checks.
What Happens After the Exam?
After your child’s eye exam:
- If glasses are needed, our optical technician will help choose frames that are durable and comfortable.
- If no prescription is needed, we’ll let you know when to come back for a follow-up (typically in 1 year).
- If contact lenses are being considered for older children or teens, we’ll walk you through the fitting process and provide trial lenses when appropriate.
Ready to Book?
We offer after-school appointments and flexible scheduling for busy parents. Whether it’s your child’s first exam or they’re already wearing glasses, we make the process simple, supportive, and stress-free.
Located just south of West Edmonton Mall in the plaza with Sorrentino’s and Starbucks. Call us at (833) 828-2020 or book online now.