Most physicians test vision as part of a child's medical examination.  They may refer a child to an eye doctor if there is any sign of an abnormal eye condition.  The American Academy of Ophthalmology and the American Academy of Pediatrics recommend the first vision screening occur in the hospital as part of a newborn baby's discharge examination.  Visual function also should be checked by the pediatrician or family physician during routine well-child exams (typically at two, four and six months of age).  If a parent is suspicious of any eye condition that appears unusual, a child can be examined at any age by an optometrist or ophthalmologist.  Interestingly, a parent may notice subtle conditions in their child because they have the opportunity to observe them constantly.  Even if the child's eye appear normal, a thorough eye exam at five years of age is recommended.