Pediatric Vision and Hearing Screening

Babies

A hearing test should be performed on all babies within one month of birth. Pre-screening should be accomplished before the baby leaves the hospital. As soon as you notice a hearing loss in your baby, get them a full hearing test as soon as possible, but no later than three months of age.

Older Babies and Children

Ask the doctor for a hearing test as soon as possible if you think your child might have hearing loss.

The hearing of young children who may develop acquired, progressive, or delayed-onset hearing loss should be evaluated by the age of 2 to 2 1/2. Progressive or acquired hearing loss refers to a loss that gets worse with time. It is called delayed-onset hearing loss when the hearing loss develops after the baby is born. See if your child is at risk of hearing loss.

If a child doesn't pass a hearing screening, a full hearing test should be given as soon as possible.

According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology and the American Academy of Pediatrics, children should have their eyes checked by a pediatrician at these ages:  

Newborn

Before leaving the hospital, all babies should have their eyes checked for infections, defects, cataracts, or glaucoma. The risk is higher for premature babies, babies that have been given oxygen for a prolonged period, and babies with multiple medical problems.

By 6 months of age

A well-child visit should include an eye examination, a vision development screening, and an eye alignment check.

Starting at 1 to 2 years

Potential eye problems can be detected using photo screening devices.

At 3 to 4 years 

Check for any abnormalities of the eye or vision that may cause problems later in life.

At 5 years and older

 Every year, each eye should be checked separately. A pediatric ophthalmologist may be consulted if your child's eye doctor finds a problem during routine eye exams. They are trained and experienced in the care of children's eye problems.