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Children's Eye Tests

At Bayfields Opticians, we understand that children’s eye tests require patience, care, and a gentle approach. Whether your child is visiting for the first time or returning for a routine check, our friendly optometrists make every appointment relaxed, engaging, and informative.

A lot of children don't know how to express issues with their eyesight, struggle to recognise a lazy eye, or don't even realise they see things differently. This is why a comprehensive kids’ eye test is so important - it gives you a full picture of their eye health and ensures they have all the support they need to see clearly, right from the start of their learning journey.

At Bayfields, we offer free NHS eye tests with optional advanced OCT and optomap® scan options to give you a complete picture of your child’s eye health from as little as £19.50.

Children's Eye Test Prices at Bayfields
Our Advanced Eye Test Our Ultimate Eye Test
  • Our Advanced Eye Test
  • Our Ultimate Eye Test
Our Advanced Eye Test for children includes an OCT scan and a comprehensive examination. Kids can receive a free eye test at Bayfields with an NHS optical voucher, and an optional OCT scan can be added for £19.50. Available at selected practices and includes:
  1. Comprehensive eye test 
  2. OCT scan

Children's eye test: free eye test with NHS Voucher + £19.50 for OCT scan.

 

An OCT eye test uses a detailed 3D OCT scan to spot early signs of eye conditions like glaucoma, diabetes, high blood pressure, diabetes and macular degeneration, often before physical symptoms appear. Early detection gives your child the best chance of enjoying a happy and healthy future.

 

Learn More About Our Eye Technology
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Our Ultimate Eye Test is the most in-depth eye exam we offer for children. it includes a comprehensive examination with optional scans.
Kids can receive a free eye test at Bayfields with an NHS optical voucher. An optional OCT and optomap® scan can be added for £29.50. Available at selected practices and includes:
  1. Comprehensive eye test 
  2. OCT scan
  3. optomap® scan

Children's eye test: free eye test with NHS Voucher + £29.50 for optional scans.

 

The optomap® scan is an ultra-widefield retinal imaging scan that captures a 200-degree view of the back of your eye, helping us spot any hidden issues in your peripheral retina. Undergoing both an OCT & optomap® scan together can help detect health conditions that other scans alone might miss.

 

Learn More About Our Eye Technology here.
Book an Eye Test with Bayfields Opticians

Here's what our clients think of our Eye Tests at Bayfields Opticians

What to Expect at a Child's Eye Test

We know that taking your child for their first eye test can feel a little daunting. Our goal is to make the experience as fun and stress-free as possible. Here’s a simple, step-by-step guide to what happens during a child's eye test at Bayfields Opticians:

  1. Welcome & Chat: We’ll start by getting to know you and your child. Our team will make them feel at ease and explain everything in a way they can understand.

  2. Vision Check: We use a variety of child-friendly tools and charts. If your child is too young to read letters, we use fun picture charts or matching games to check their vision.

  3. Eye Health Check: Our optometrist will gently examine the health of your child’s eyes, looking for any underlying conditions. This is completely painless and non-invasive.

  4. Prescription Check: If we find that your child needs glasses, we’ll work with them and you to find the perfect prescription.

  5. Questions & Advice: We'll answer any questions you have and provide you with clear, helpful advice on the best next steps for your child.

Book Your Child’s Free Eye Test

 

Free NHS Eye Test for Children

Children under 16 and those aged 16‑18 in full‑time education are entitled to a free NHS sight test. This includes:

  • full vision assessment
  • refraction for glasses if needed
  • internal and external eye health check
  • We’ll also help you access NHS optical vouchers for glasses if required.

Why Children’s Eye Tests Are Important

Some eye issues, such as lazy eye (amblyopia), squints, or colour vision deficiency, might not show obvious symptoms, especially in young children. A full eye exam helps ensure your child’s vision development and learning are on track and catches potential issues early.

 

Because 80% of all eye damage occurs during childhood, a regular eye test is a crucial part of their health and development. Booking a child’s eye test before they start school is a fantastic way to prepare them for the challenges of the classroom.

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Why Choose Bayfields for Children’s Eye Care?

Young eyes deserve special attention, and we're dedicated to providing the best possible experience for your child.

We Understand Kids

Our optometrists are experienced in working with children of all ages. We know how to handle the anxious ones, the wrigglers, and the ones who think they can trick the test! We make every eye test fun and comfortable, so your child feels completely at ease.

Free UV-protected lenses on children’s glasses

Because 80% of all eye damage occurs during childhood, every pair of our children's glasses is upgraded to ZEISS UV Protect lenses for free. This gives your child the best possible protection against harmful UV rays, safeguarding their eye health for years to come.

A fantastic choice of children’s frames and contact lenses

We offer a fantastic selection of kids' glasses and even successfully fit children as young as one for kids’ contact lenses. We can help you find the perfect frames to match your child's personality, and if they're interested, we can explore contact lenses as a great option for active lifestyles.

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Common questions on children's eye tests

What age should my child have their first eye test?

We recommend your child's first full eye test by age 4 or 5, before they start school. Early eye checks help spot any issues before they affect learning.

How often should children have an eye test?

Every child should have an eye test at least every two years or more frequently if advised by their optometrist, especially if vision changes are detected.

Is a school vision screening enough?

No - school screenings are helpful but not a substitute for a full eye exam by an optometrist. School checks may miss conditions like mild squint or early prescription changes.

How do I book a children’s eye test?

Find and call your nearest practice here or book here for an appointment. 

Does Bayfields offer children’s contact lens assessments?

Yes, if your child is suitable, we offer contact lens fitting and aftercare for older children and teens, including orthokeratology and myopia management.

Are kids' eye tests free?

Yes, they are. In the UK, a child's eye test is completely free under the NHS for all children under the age of 16. The NHS also covers children aged 16-18 who are in full-time education. You can book a free child’s eye test at any of our practices.