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Signs your child might have a vision problem (& what to do)

little boy photo camera 1280x847Many children don’t realize they’re seeing the world differently – because for them, it’s all they’ve ever known. That’s why parents play a key role in spotting early signs of vision problems.

At Eyecare Associates in Fort Collins, CO, our optometrists are here to help with gentle, thorough pediatric eye exams you can trust.

What are common signs my child might have a vision problem?

Look out for these telltale signs:

  • Squinting or tilting their head to see
  • Frequent eye rubbing or blinking
  • Holding books, tablets, or phones very close
  • Sitting close to the TV or classroom board
  • Trouble focusing in school, skipping lines when reading, or avoiding near work

These behaviors may indicate refractive errors (like nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism), focusing issues, or eye coordination problems.

My child is squinting and getting headaches – do they need glasses?

Possibly, yes. Squinting and headaches are classic symptoms of uncorrected vision problems.

A comprehensive pediatric eye exam at Eyecare Associates can identify whether your child needs glasses or if there’s another underlying issue contributing to their discomfort.

Should I worry if my child always sits close to screens?

Yes, this might mean they’re struggling to see objects clearly at a distance – a sign of myopia (shortsightedness). Our optometrists assess both near and distance vision to determine if glasses, contact lenses, or myopia management options are needed.

My child doesn’t complain about vision – could there still be a problem?

Absolutely. Children are often unaware of what “clear vision” should look like and may never report symptoms. That’s why annual eye exams are important, even when no problems are obvious.

Can vision problems affect school or behavior?

Yes. Uncorrected vision issues can impact:

  • Learning and academic performance
  • Attention span and focus
  • Reading fluency
  • Behavior and self-esteem

Supporting your child’s vision supports their overall growth, development, and confidence in and out of the classroom.

Why choose Eyecare Associates?

We know eye exams can feel intimidating, especially for nervous or energetic children. At Eyecare Associates, our team is skilled at creating a child-friendly environment, using calm explanations, playful techniques, and lots of patience to make sure every visit is smooth for kids and parents alike.

Contact us today to schedule your eye care appointment.