Children’s Optometrist

How is your child's eye health?

Did you know that a child processes 80% of what they learn through their eyes? Eyesight plays a crucial role in a child’s educational journey and impacts their self-esteem and confidence.

Signs of potential vision issues in children include complaints of eyestrain or headaches, double or blurry vision, covering one eye, short attention span, difficulty concentrating, words appearing to move on the page, skipping words and lines while reading, frequent eye rubbing and difficulty copying from the board.

Early detection for better outcomes

While some children may show symptoms of eyesight issues, others may not, or they may be too young to communicate any difficulties. For this reason, we recommend a consultation by age three, followed by yearly screenings, as vision can change as children grow.

Early detection is essential for effective treatment of vision problems and eye disease. Not only that, identifying and addressing problems early can prevent academic setbacks for children and promote positive social and emotional development.

The consultation process

During your child’s appointment:

• We learn about your child’s eye health history and any concerns.
• We conduct comfortable, non-invasive tests to assess eye health.
• Our optometrists use child-friendly methods to check vision.
• Based on the results, we recommend suitable vision correction options.
• Our dispensers assist in finding perfect frames or lenses.
• We ensure a perfect fit for glasses or contacts.
• We provide follow-up reminders and support.

Expert care for young eyes

We have the expertise and resources to comprehensively test for and identify various childhood eye conditions. Your child’s comfort is our top priority. Even if they can’t read yet, we ensure they feel relaxed and at ease from their first appointment. Our eye exams are designed to feel like games, with bright lights, coloured lenses and engaging charts. We also stock an extensive range of children’s eyewear, including baby frames, swimming goggles and sports glasses. Book an eye test today.

“Clear vision builds confidence, learning and joy—early eye care gives children the best start in life.”

Areas We Serve

We have cared for Northern Beaches locals' eye health for over fifty years. Ian Donald Optometrists are here for you with the latest technology and an extensive range of frames from local and international designers.

Manly

Servicing Manly with high-quality eye care and an extensive range of boutique fashion eye wear brands.

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Balgowlah

Servicing Balgowlah and surrounding areas with high-quality eye care and boutique fashion eyewear brands.

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Freshwater

Servicing Freshwater locals with professional eye care and an envious range of boutique fashion eyewear from local and international designers.

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Dee Why

Dee Why locals have been travelling south to Manly to visit our optometrists for decades. For specialist eye care and professional service.

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Brookvale

For generations, the locals of Brookvale have been turning to Ian Donald Optometrists to care for their vision.

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Collaroy

Our reputation for service, quality, and professionalism is why so many customers in Collaroy come to Ian Donald Optometrists for eye care.

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FAQs

How soon should I book an eye test for my child in Manly or Balgowlah

Children often process most of what they learn visually, so it’s best to have their eyes tested by age three, with yearly screenings as they grow. Learn more about early eye testing

What warning signs might indicate my child needs an eye check in Freshwater or Dee Why

Look out for squinting, covering one eye, frequent headaches, a short attention span, or skipping words while reading—these can all be early signs of a vision issue. Read about common warning signs

Can you help slow my child’s myopia progression near Brookvale or Collaroy

Yes—we offer Ortho-K lenses, which gently reshape the cornea overnight and can reduce dependence on glasses while slowing myopia in growing children. Find out about Ortho-K

Do you stock durable eyewear for active kids around the Northern Beaches

Absolutely. We provide a wide selection of children’s frames, including baby frames, sports and swimming goggles, all chosen for durability and comfort. Explore children’s eyewear

How do you make eye tests fun and comfortable for preschoolers in Collaroy

We conduct engaging, non-invasive tests—using bright lights, colourful lenses and playful charts—to make sure even very young children feel relaxed and enjoy their visit. Discover our child-friendly exams

How often should local children have eye exams in Manly and Freshwater

We recommend annual check-ups as vision can change quickly during growth phases—especially for kids who play sports, use screens, or are developing new visual habits. Learn about testing frequency

Can teens in Balgowlah receive contact lens fittings or other vision solutions

Definitely. We assess teen visual needs and can provide comfortable contact lens fittings as well as guidance on lifestyle-friendly vision options. Read more about teenage eye care

See better. Look perfect.

Leading optometrists offering precision eye care with cutting-edge technology and equipment. Specialist eyewear dispensers who ensure you find the perfect set of frames for your features.

See better. Look perfect.

Have questions?
Chat with our team today

Shop 2, 37-39 The Corso,
Manly NSW 2095

Monday to Friday - 8.30am to 5.30pm
Saturday - 8.30am to 4.00pm

Ian Donald Optometrist is a private billing practice. Please contact reception for our consultation fee schedule. Medicare and private health insurance rebates apply.