A family of three comes in for eye exams. Who should you pre-test first?

Pre-testing the parent first is a practical approach in this scenario. Parents often have responsibilities that may restrict their availability, especially if they have to manage the children during the appointment. By pre-testing the parent first, you can ensure that their examination is completed without the added distractions that can come from handling children.

Additionally, adults may also require a more complex set of tests and evaluations that could take longer than those typically needed for children. This prioritization allows for a smoother flow of the appointment, ensuring that the children can be pre-tested together afterward or in succession without waiting too long.

While pre-testing the eldest child or youngest child may seem appropriate for various reasons, the parent’s needs and responsibilities often take precedence in a family setting, making it the best choice for maintaining efficiency in the appointment. Pre-testing everyone at once may lead to complications, such as lack of focused attention and time management challenges, especially in a family dynamic.