Pediatric ophthalmologists are medical and surgical doctors who specialize in the eye problems of children. In particular, vision develops in the brain until about age 9 years and can be adversely affected when the eyes are not straight or do not focus correctly. A child can grow up with good vision in each eye if these problems are detected and treated at a young age. All ophthalmologists have some training in children’s eye problems, but the pediatric ophthalmologist has had additional training and practice in examining children and caring for their eyes. If your primary care doctor suggests that your child have his or her eyes checked, a pediatric ophthalmologist will have the greatest knowledge of the possible conditions and the greatest experience in examining children effectively.