SEE the Best Eye Doctors for Kids in Kalamazoo- 2026

When Should Kids See an Eye Doctor?

As a first-time parent, I felt confident in my child’s checkup schedule. Our pediatrician visited within hours of birth, and we met our dentist after her first birthday.

But an eye doctor? I didn’t know the protocol here.

My husband has worn glasses since elementary school; mine didn’t arrive until college. Will our kids need glasses too? And how do we know when to have their vision checked?

We’ve polled KZOOKIDS readers for the best eye doctors in Kalamazoo, and their results are below.

If you’re looking for additional providers, try our Best Doctors Guide for other specialties.

Vision Behaviors That May Warrant a Checkup

It can be frustrating for a child to attempt to explain what’s wrong when they are experiencing problems with their eye health.

Schedule a checkup with an ophthalmologist or optometrist if you see any of the following:
• squinting
• tilting head or covering one eye
• sitting too close to screens/television
• rubbing eyes excessively
• experiencing frequent headaches/nausea
• tearing excessively

Voting Results: Kids Eye Doctors in Kalamazoo

Vision appointments can appear daunting for kids. They include big machines, bright lights and sitting still. Is that feasible with small children? How can a toddler “read” an eye chart?

Finding the right eye care provider makes a big difference: with a kid-friendly eye doctor, the lights will not seem too bright, nor the machines too scary. And “reading” may include seeing a bunny instead of a letter.

The American Optometric Association (AOA) recommends that children have a thorough eye exam at age three and again just before entering kindergarten or first grade.

Every name in this guide received significant votes from our readers. Local parents voted these care professionals as the tops for kids:

Choosing Your Family’s Eye Doctor

Whether your child wears glasses or not, an eye doctor should be included in your child’s healthcare team.

By selecting one nominated by Kalamazoo area parents, you can be confident that your choice is a trusted partner in their care.

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