Philip Walsh - Ever wondered how much your little ones can see?

Right from birth, a baby's eye movements show that they are collecting visual information from their surroundings, but in the early days, they are unable to focus on anything much further than 30cms. Therefore, any far away objects will appear blurry to newly born babies. At three months old they will typically be able to focus on the finer details of all objects and as a child grows, their eyesight becomes further developed. By eight months old a baby’s vision is reasonably well developed and they should be able to see relatively well.

It’s vital to keep on top of eye health, and an eye examination with your local optometrist is important to see how their eyesight is progressing before they start school. Long term eye issues have a higher chance of being cured if they are detected and treated before a child turns eight.

Recent survey statistics commissioned by Specsavers[1] revealed almost one in two children (45 per cent) of children aged between 1 - 16 years old have never had an eye exam. That is more than 400,000[2] Kiwi children. Specsavers understands the importance of young eyes, which is why every Kiwi child under the age of 16 is entitled to a free eye exam.

For more information about Specsavers’ Kids Go Free offer, talk to your local Specsavers optometrist or visit www.specsavers.co.nz.

About Philip 

Philip is an experienced optometrist with a Bachelor of Optometry from Auckland University. He’s worked in the UK, Zimbabwe and is now the Optometrist Director at the Specsavers New Lynn store in Auckland, one of 52 Specsavers stores across the country. 

Improving access for all Kiwis to high-quality eye care and eyewear is Philip’s passion. What he loves about his role at Specsavers is providing all his patients with excellent customer service and professional eye care with the latest technology and knowledgeable well-trained staff. 

www.specsavers.co.nz