Friends and Family

Eye clinic appointments: a guide for parents

Summary: Ideas for what to ask at the eye clinic, for parents of children with sight problems.

• Questions for the doctor, ophthalmologist or paediatrician
• Questions for the orthoptist or ophthalmic optician
• More information

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You're starting to take your child for eye tests. You may be full of questions - or be confused and not know where to start.

That's why we asked other parents for ideas on what to ask at the eye clinic. Here's what they suggested…

Questions for the doctor, ophthalmologist or paediatrician

• What is the condition called? Can you spell that for me?
• What causes the condition? Please explain as simply as possible.
• How does the condition affect my child's ability to see?
• Does this condition sometimes run in families? If so, can I speak to a genetic counsellor?
• Can anything be done to cure or help this condition? Is any special treatment necessary? What might help? What can I do to help?
• Is there anything my child mustn't do (for example, rub their eyes, shake their head or jump on to a hard surface)?
• Even with treatment, is the condition likely to get worse, get better or stay the same?
• When should my child be examined again?
• Where might we go for further advice and help? For example, could you give us the contact details for visual impairment professionals in social services, the education authority and voluntary organisations?
• Is there anything further I can do to help my child?
• Have you got any information on this subject that I can take home and read?

Questions for the orthoptist or ophthalmic optician

• Will glasses or lenses help? If so, when should my child where them?
• Are there any special aids which will help my child see better?
• In your opinion, how well can my child see…
  at a distance?
  to the side?
  in colour?
  in the dark?
  in bright light?
  with movement?
  with 3D vision?
• What can I do to encourage my child to help their vision develop, and to make the best use of their sight?
• Can you refer my child to a qualified teacher for children with a visual impairment (QTVI)? I'd like to discuss how my child's sight might affect him or her at school or nursery, and what sort of support should be put in place.

The information for this page was adapted by Sally Hughes, Early Years Inclusion Officer, from "Your First Steps", published by RNIB.

More information

For more general information on eye health, see Eye info.

Read our who's who guide to find out more about opticians, ophthalmologists, and other professionals.

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Content author: parents@rnib.org.uk

Last updated: 20/11/2008 11:13