Snellen Eye Chart for Kids
A simple at-home tool to check your child’s distance vision.
What Is the Snellen Chart?
The Snellen chart is a simple tool used to measure distance visual acuity, or how clearly someone can see letters from a distance. Eye care professionals around the world use this chart during an eye examination to check how well someone can see at a distance.
This chart is designed for testing at 3 metres, making it suitable for use at home, in classrooms, or other small spaces. While it doesn’t replace a full kids eye test with an optometrist, it can help parents get a quick indication of their child’s vision and notice early signs of potential vision problems.
If your child struggles to read letters that other children their age can see clearly, it may suggest that their vision for learning and daily activities should be assessed by a professional.
Download the Snellen Eye Chart
Print at full size and use at 3 metres for the most accurate result.
How to Use the Snellen Chart at Home
Steps for managing post-concussion vision symptoms:
1
Print the Chart
Print the chart at full size and place it on a wall at your child’s eye level.
2
Measure the Distance
Measure 3 metres from the chart and mark where your child should stand.
3
Set Up Good Lighting
Ensure good lighting so the letters are easy to see without glare.
4
Cover One Eye
Cover one eye with a clean hand or card (avoid pressing on the eye).
5
Start at the Top
Start at the top line and ask your child to read the letters aloud.
6
Work Down the Chart
Move down the chart line by line until the letters become difficult to see.
7
Record the Result
Record the smallest line your child can read clearly.
8
Repeat for the Other Eye
Repeat the test with the other eye, then compare the two results.
The numbers beside each row represent the visual acuity level. For example, 6/6 vision generally indicates clear distance vision.
What the Results Mean
6/9 – 6/6
Typical clear distance vision depending on age.
Worse than 6/12
May indicate reduced vision and should be assessed with a professional eye test for children.
Keep in mind that this chart only measures distance clarity. It does not assess other important parts of vision for children, such as focusing ability, eye coordination, tracking, or overall eye health.
Should I Book a Proper Eye Examination If They See It Fine?
Children often assume everyone sees the way they do, which means many vision problems can go unnoticed. If your child struggles with this chart, squints, complains of headaches, or avoids reading and schoolwork, it may be a sign their children’s vision needs further assessment.
If you have any concerns about your child’s eyesight, booking a comprehensive kids eye test with the team at Eyecare Kids can help ensure their vision is developing properly and that any issues are identified early.
Book a comprehensive kids eye test
Help ensure your child’s vision is developing properly, our caring optometrists are here to help.
