The Pediatric Vision Clinic at Gailmard Eye Center was established in August 2009 under the direction of Amanda Sprehe, O.D. in response to a need for specialty eye care for children in Northwest Indiana Dr. Sprehe specializes in the evaluation, diagnosis, treatment, remediation, and enhancement of the visual systems of children. Our services include:
• Eye exams for kids. We are specially equipped to perform eye exams without making them intimidating. We use a calm and friendly approach and we make the tests fun. From special eye charts with pictures to superfast autorefractor machines that take the guess work out of vision tests, we cater to kids. We even have a flat screen TV in the exam room that plays favorite DVDs while we do the work.
• Explanations for parents. We take the time to talk to you about your child's visual development, explain vision problems and give you treatment options.
• An interdisciplinary approach. If your child's vision problem is affecting school performance or behavior issues, we will work in cooperation with teachers, school nurses, psychologists, pediatricians and other professionals as directed by the parents. We provide a thorough written report of our findings.
• Special testing. When indicated based on the eye exam or other symptoms, Dr. Sprehe will run specialized diagnostic tests as part of a binocular vision evaluation or developmental vision evaluation.
• Vision therapy. The Pediatric Vision Clinic at GEC has a special department for vision therapy (VT). Through a series of VT sessions in our office under the direction of Dr. Sprehe and with the use of special optical and electronic devices, the patient is trained to use his or her visual system properly. Home VT exercises are also recommended. See more below.
• Eyeglasses for the younger set. We have lots of frames that look cool and fit well so kids actually love their glasses! We use durable products and safe polycarbonate lenses plus we have a great warranty program -- but kids will be kids and we are always here to repair glasses when needed.
• Contacts are OK for kids. Contact lenses have changed and they are safer and more convenient than ever, making them a great option for younger children. Disposable contacts take the worry out of losing lenses; we even fit lenses that are thrown away after each day of use! Personal appearance and self-esteem are important factors in a child's development and many kids are thrilled with the idea of not wearing glasses. Contacts are a great option for sports and other activities. An easy, in-office, free trial can tell us if a child is ready.
For more information about VT, click here: What is Vision Therapy?
Read what the College of Optometrists in Vision Development indicate are important factors in the Identification and treatment of learning-related vision problems.
