Age Policy
We specialize in examining school-aged children. Dr. Fouladian sees patients starting at age 5 and up.
80% of a child's learning occurs through their eyes. Undiagnosed vision problems are often misdiagnosed as learning disabilities or behavioral issues (like ADHD) because a child who cannot focus easily will become frustrated or disengaged.
Refractive Error & Binocularity
It's not just about clear sight; it's about how the eyes work together.
Visual Efficiency
Even if a child sees "20/20" on a wall chart, they may struggle with Binocularity (eye teaming) or Accommodation (focusing). If the eyes don't work in perfect sync, reading becomes a chore, words may "swim" on the page, and comprehension drops.
Refractive Errors
Standard nearsightedness (Myopia), farsightedness (Hyperopia), and Astigmatism. Uncorrected farsightedness is a common cause of eye strain in school.
Amblyopia ("Lazy Eye")
Refractive Amblyopia: One eye has a much higher prescription than the other. The brain ignores the blurry eye. It's hard to detect without an exam because the child sees fine with the good eye.
Strabismic Amblyopia: Caused by an eye turn (crossed eye). The brain turns off the deviating eye to avoid double vision.
Strabismus
Misalignment of the eyes (turning in or out). This destroys depth perception, critical for sports and 3D vision.
Medical & Developmental Health
Congenital Glaucoma
Rare but serious high pressure in the eye. Signs include cloudiness, excessive tearing, and light sensitivity.
Tear Duct Obstruction
Persistent watering or discharge due to a blocked drainage system. While common in infants, persistent issues in school-age children require evaluation.
Premature Birth History
Children born prematurely are at higher risk for high refractive errors, strabismus, and retinal issues (ROP history). We monitor these patients closely.
Vernal Conjunctivitis
A severe, recurrent allergic condition (VKC) primarily affecting young boys. Symptoms include intense itching, light sensitivity, and thick discharge.
Urgent: Can cause permanent corneal scarring if not treated early.
Vision Affects Everything
Academics
Reading comprehension relies on smooth eye tracking. If the eyes jump or lose place, learning suffers.
Sports
Depth perception, hand-eye coordination, and peripheral awareness are purely visual skills essential for athletes.
Behavior
A child with uncorrected vision may act out, avoid homework, or seem distracted, often mimicking ADHD symptoms.
Preparing For the Exam
To get the most accurate results for your child's prescription and health check, we ask parents to follow these important guidelines during the visit.
Do Not Coach the Child
It is crucial that we hear the child's honest answers during the eye chart test. Please do not hint, correct them, or ask "Are you sure?" If they guess wrong, that is important diagnostic data for the doctor.
Avoid the "Worry Face"
Children look to their parents for cues. If you look anxious or disappointed when they can't read a line, they may shut down or try to guess to please you. Keep a neutral, positive demeanor.
One Parent, No Siblings
To minimize distractions in the exam room, we request that only one parent accompanies the patient. Siblings and friends should remain in the waiting area with another guardian if possible.
Set Them Up for Success
TEXT FOR APPT