Looking after Young Eyes

Good vision is essential in childhood development and regular eye tests are the key to good vision.  

​At Eric Mercer’s we provide a full eye care service for children. When you come to our practice, you can be sure your family’s eyes will be examined thoroughly and plenty of time taken to discuss their visual needs.

​If you think your child might be short-sighted, ask us about MiSight contact lenses. These daily disposable lenses are an innovative option proven to slow the progression of myopia in children.

Children's Eye Problems

Poor vision can have a damaging effect on a child’s ability to learn. Yet, research shows that as many as one in five children attend school with un-diagnosed eye problems. The problem is that children won’t always realize they have a sight defect. Also, there may be no obvious signs for parents and teachers to pick up on.

Lazy eye
A lazy eye occurs when the vision in one eye has not developed normally. It can be caused by a squint or when there is a large difference in prescription between the two eyes. If detected early, a lazy eye can usually be treated successfully. 

Long-sight (Hyperopia)
Children with long-sight have difficulty focussing on near objects. For example, when reading a book or looking at a phone or computer screen. 
Short-sight (Myopia)
Children with short-sight can see things clearly up close but find distance objects blurred. Early signs include difficulty seeing the board at school or sitting too close to the TV. 

Astigmatism
Astigmatism is caused by an irregular curvature of the cornea at the front of the eye. Instead of being spherical like a football, the eye is shaped more like a rugby ball. This can cause blurred vision at both distance and near. 

Poor vision - signs to look out for

  • headaches or eyestrain
  • blurred vision
  • squinting
  • peering closely at books and TV
  • poor performance at school

Free NHS Eye Tests

It’s never too early to get your children’s eyes tested. In fact it's a good idea to have them checked before they start school. It doesn't matter if your child is too young to talk or read a letter chart - we have a range of techniques to help detect visual problems at any age. 

The earlier a problem is detected, the better the chances of it being corrected and treated successfully. Also, children’s eyes can change quickly when they're growing. So, even if nothing appears to be wrong, it is important to make sure your child has a sight test at least once a year.
 
Remember, it costs nothing to have your child’s eyes tested. Under the NHS, eye tests are free to all children under 16 and full-time students under 19. 

Eyewear that fits

At Eric Mercer's we understand how important it is for children's sight that their glasses fit properly and are comfortable to wear. That's why we specialise in Tomato glasses for kids.

Using modern, lightweight materials, Tomato frames have been specially designed to suit the facial features of children of all ages - from new-born babies to growing teenagers. These highly adjustable frames are non-slip and flexible, offering the ultimate in comfort and safety.
Click on the logo to find out more about award-winning Tomato Glasses and browse the full range of colours and styles.

Contact lenses for kids

Contact lenses can be a great option for active kids - particularly for sports like football, hockey, rugby or tennis. 

​Contact lens technology has developed immensely in recent years, making them healthier and more comfortable than ever to wear. Daily disposables offer unrivalled convenience for kids with busy schedules - no cleaning or disinfecting procedures are required and a fresh pair of lenses are used every time they’re worn.

And for children with short-sight, new MiSight daily disposables offer a safe and effective way to slow myopia progression.