McGovern Opticians are a family orientated practice, we take pride in ensuring our younger patients have as good an experience as possible when having an eye examination with us. Our staff members have children of their own and understand that appointments with health professionals can be daunting for them therefore we take the time to welcome and introduce ourselves in a friendly approachable manner.

Why should I get my child’s eyes tested?

It is important that children have regular eye examinations so issues can be detected early on to prevent further damage and the necessary support and treatment required is provided. There is a direct correlation between undetected eye problems and a child’s performance in school, therefore having your child’s eyes tested can be seen as a back-to-school necessity.

What age can I have my child’s eyes tested?

Children’s eyes are first physically examined as a newborn baby, briefly reviewed at one year old and then at 4-5 years old vision screening is carried out in the child’s school, a basic eye check. It is recommended that children have a comprehensive eye examination in an optician’s as visual screening carried out at school will NOT actually diagnose visual health issues and ocular conditions, simply due to the vast difference in depth of the examination and the equipment used.

How much is the examination?

Children in the UK under 16 and full-time students under 18 are entitled to FREE NHS eye examinations. Children who have been tested on the Health Service and are prescribed glasses, will get a voucher to help towards the cost of glasses.

How long is a child’s eye test?

A child’s eyesight test lasts approximately 20 to 30 minutes. The child may require eye drops to dilate their pupils and make them easier to test. If your child requires eye drops, the test may take longer. The drops will provide the optometrist with a more accurate result and will assist the optometrist in determining whether your child requires glasses or other eye care if a problem exists.

Myopic Management

Myopia or short-sightedness is increasing in the UK and Ireland. Twice as many children are short-sighted now as in the 1960s. Now, by the age of 16, it is expected that 25% of all children will be short-sighted. If left untreated myopia can lead to lasting vision problems. Increased myopia increases your risk of sight loss in the future.

Myopia management is where we try to slow down the progression of myopia by using specialist contact lenses (Misight) or specialist spectacle lenses. (Miyosmart). To understand more about Myopia Management, please click here.

Do we supply frames?

We have a variety of kids frames to select from, ranging in different colours, design and size to suit all different personalities and tastes. It’s important to us that we find a frame which sits comfortably on your childs face, therefore we carry out various fitting checks when glasses are being supplied.

We are STOCKISTS of AWARD WINNING TOMATO GLASSES.

Tomato glasses are a range of comfortable, colourful, practical frames which have been expertly designed and flexible and highly adjustable with babies and children in mind. Available in sizes from newborn to teens and adults.

Tomato frames are:

• Non Toxic
• Lightweight – Less than 8 grams weight
• Come with detachable head strap
• Comfortable – Cushioning on tips
• Non-slip technology
• Durable – Made from shape intelligence material