Raising a family in Longmont means balancing school, sports, and screen time. You also need to ensure your child is healthy and happy. Vision is a big part of that equation.
Children use their eyes to learn, play, and connect with the world. However, many vision problems can go unnoticed without a proper eye exam. At The Optical Centre, we provide comprehensive eye exams for children. These exams help spot any eye problems early. This way, your child can see clearly and confidently.
When Should Children Start Getting Eye Exams?
Most schools only provide basic vision screenings, not full children’s eye tests. These screenings may miss vision issues, especially those affecting focus, depth perception, and eye teaming. A comprehensive eye exam is the only way to truly assess how your child’s eyes are functioning. The American Optometric Association recommends:
- First exam: Between 6 and 12 months
- Second exam: Between ages 3 and 5
- Annual exams: Starting at age 6, or when they enter school
Common Vision Conditions in Children in Longmont
Here are some common eye conditions found during a pediatric eye exam. Many of these can develop without clear symptoms. However, they can greatly affect how children see, learn, and interact with the world.
1. Myopia (Nearsightedness)
Myopia makes faraway things look blurry. This can make it hard for kids to see the whiteboard or keep up in class. Early signs include squinting, sitting too close to screens, or complaining of blurry distance vision.
2. Hyperopia (Farsightedness)
Children with hyperopia can see distant objects clearly but struggle with close-up tasks like reading or writing. While some degree of hyperopia is normal in early childhood, higher levels can cause eye strain, headaches, and fatigue. A proper children’s eye test can determine if children need corrective measures to prevent learning disruptions.
3. Astigmatism
Astigmatism happens when the shape of the eye causes light to focus unevenly on the retina. This leads to distorted or blurred vision at all distances. People often inherit it, and it can affect one or both eyes. Children may squint, complain of eye discomfort, or have trouble seeing clearly, whether they’re reading a book or watching a movie.
4. Amblyopia (Lazy Eye)
Amblyopia happens when one eye is weaker than the other and doesn’t develop normal vision. If left untreated, the brain begins to ignore input from the weaker eye, which can result in permanent vision loss. This condition usually starts in early childhood. It is best treated if found before age 7. Treatment can include glasses, eye patching, or vision therapy to help the weaker eye.
5. Strabismus (Crossed Eyes)
Strabismus is when the eyes don’t align properly, causing one eye to drift inward, outward, upward, or downward. It can lead to double vision, depth perception problems, or amblyopia if the brain favors one eye over the other. Parents might notice their child’s eye turning occasionally or consistently. Early diagnosis allows for more effective treatments, including glasses, eye exercises, or in some cases, surgery.
6. Binocular Vision Issues
Binocular vision issues occur when the eyes struggle to work together as a team, even if each eye sees clearly on its own. This can lead to difficulties with tracking, focusing, and visual coordination. Symptoms might include frequent headaches, losing place while reading, or avoiding close-up tasks altogether. A comprehensive pediatric eye exam can uncover these subtle but impactful issues.
Why Children in Longmont Benefit from Regular Eye Exams
In Longmont, families value outdoor activity, strong academics, and healthy living; all of which rely on good vision. As schools incorporate more screen-based learning, children face added strain on their eyes. Combine this with high UV exposure from our elevation, and early eye care becomes especially important.
Even in a well-resourced town, many parents assume their child’s vision is fine if they don’t complain. But many conditions are symptom-free in early stages, which is why regular pediatric eye exams are so important.
Set Your Child Up for Success with Early Eye Care in Longmont
Whether your child is starting kindergarten or already in school, regular eye exams help them see clearly and comfortably. At The Optical Centre, we are proud to help families in Longmont.
We offer trusted care that fits your child's needs, your busy schedule, and the unique lifestyle of this town. Book an eye care appointment with our eye doctor to help your child thrive, one clear step at a time.
Children's Eye Exam FAQs
What are the signs my child may need an eye exam?
Watch for squinting, frequent headaches, holding books close, avoiding reading, or sitting too close to screens. These could all point to underlying vision issues.
Do children need glasses if they have 20/20 vision?
Not necessarily. 20/20 vision only measures sharpness at a distance. A child can have perfect distance vision but still struggle with eye teaming, tracking, or near focus, all of which are checked during a routine eye exam.