Caring for kids

As the summer holidays begin, more children tend to trickle in through the practice doors. Suzanne Floyd gives some advice

While an eye examination can be a daunting experience for some children, it can also be a worrying time for the optometrist should the inquisitive fingers of a 'difficult' child start  to explore expensive consulting room equipment. It is important to be confident of keeping children 'on track' during not only the examination but also in the longer term with spectacle wear, amblyopia therapy or vision training.

Children arrive in our consulting room with a visual problem to resolve. 'Difficult' children range from those who, suddenly overcome with shyness, close their eyes or won't raise their head from mum's lap, to those who conduct themselves inappropriately or who have problems arising from medical or behavioural disorders. Whatever the cause, our task is to diagnose, prescribe when necessary, and review. Mutual respect is crucial to keeping examination and treatment on track.