Your child may pass a school vision screening, but that doesn’t necessarily mean their eyes are healthy or their vision is perfect. School screenings are designed to catch only the most obvious problems.
At Eyecare Associates in Fort Collins, CO, we offer thorough, personalized eye exams that go far beyond a simple chart check, ensuring your child’s eyes are developing as they should.
Why are comprehensive eye exams important even if my child seems fine?
Children’s vision can change quickly, especially during growth phases. A comprehensive pediatric eye exam evaluates:
- Eye teaming (how well the eyes work together)
- Depth perception (how they perceive distance)
- Focusing ability (how they shift focus between near and far)
- Eye health (checking for early signs of conditions like amblyopia or strabismus)
These areas are not covered in school or pediatrician screenings, which often only test visual acuity (how well your child sees at a distance).
My child had an eye exam last year – do they really need another one?
Yes. Vision can change significantly in a short time, especially as children grow. We recommend annual eye exams to detect any new issues early and support your child’s academic, social, and physical development.
My child passed a school screening. Do we still need a full exam?
Absolutely. School screenings are limited and often miss:
- Binocular vision problems (how the eyes coordinate)
- Near vision issues (which can affect reading and learning)
- Eye tracking and coordination (important for activities like reading and sports)
A comprehensive eye exam is the only way to catch these subtler but impactful issues.
Our pediatrician checks vision – should we still see an optometrist?
Yes. While pediatricians provide valuable care, they typically perform only basic vision checks. Optometrists are specially trained to assess the full spectrum of eye health and development, including detailed eye function and internal health.
There’s no family history of vision problems – should I still bring my child in?
Yes. Many vision and eye health issues develop independently of genetics. Regular exams offer peace of mind and help ensure your child’s visual system is on track, regardless of family history.
Why choose Eyecare Associates?
As a trusted provider in Fort Collins, we’re dedicated to delivering thorough, child-focused eye care. Our experienced optometrists use advanced techniques and a caring approach to ensure every child receives accurate, comfortable, and comprehensive exams – because your child’s vision deserves more than just a quick screening.