As a parent, you want to give your child every opportunity to thrive – and that includes protecting their eyesight.
At Eyecare Associates in Fort Collins, CO, we believe great vision care begins early. Whether your child is just starting preschool or heading into middle school, our optometrists are here to help them see clearly, comfortably, and confidently.
At what age should children have their first eye exam?
We recommend scheduling your child’s first comprehensive eye exam at around 6 months old. The next exam should happen at age 3, and again just before they start school (around age 5 or 6). These early check-ups help detect potential developmental issues – such as lazy eye (amblyopia), crossed eyes (strabismus), or significant refractive errors – before they affect learning, behavior, or social development.
How often do children need eye exams after starting school?
Once your child enters school, we advise annual eye exams unless your optometrist recommends a different schedule based on their unique needs.
Regular exams help us monitor any prescription changes, detect early signs of myopia (shortsightedness), and support your child’s academic and athletic performance.
Why does my toddler need an eye exam if they can’t read yet?
Even before they can read, young children can experience vision problems. Our pediatric eye exams use specialized, nonverbal techniques like light reflex tests, fixation patterns, and age-appropriate charts to evaluate:
- Eye alignment and coordination
- Visual tracking and focusing skills
- Overall eye health
Early detection makes treatment more effective and can help prevent lifelong vision issues.
If I wear glasses, will my child need them too?
Genetics play a big role in vision. If you or your partner wear glasses or have conditions like myopia, hyperopia (farsightedness), or astigmatism, your child has a higher likelihood of developing them too.
Regular eye exams allow us to monitor their eyesight closely and recommend treatments, such as glasses or myopia management strategies, if needed.
Can screen time harm my child’s eyes?
With the rise of digital learning and entertainment, screen time has become part of most children’s daily routine. Too much screen use can cause digital eye strain, leading to:
- Blurry vision
- Dry eyes
- Headaches
- Difficulty focusing at a distance
In some cases, excessive near work may contribute to progressive myopia. Our optometrists offer personalized advice on screen habits, lighting, posture, and myopia management options to help protect your child’s vision.
What makes Eyecare Associates kid-friendly?
We understand that eye exams can feel intimidating for children. At Eyecare Associates, we:
- Create a warm, welcoming environment
- Use child-friendly explanations and techniques
- Offer flexible scheduling for busy families
- Provide guidance and resources for parents
Our goal is to make every visit smooth, positive, and informative – helping your child develop lifelong healthy vision habits.