Kids Eye Exams

What to Expect During Your Child's Eye Exam

At Edge Optics, we prioritize a child-centered approach that employs friendly language, appropriately sized equipment, and paced interactions to ease anxiety and enhance cooperation during eye testing.

Our team is trained to engage children with playful instructions and brief testing segments, allowing for breaks and positive reinforcement to maintain focus. Tests are selected and tailored by age, ensuring we get accurate information about your child's vision.

At your child's eye exam, we will complete:

• History and Observation: Discuss development and any concerns with your child's vision

• Visual Acuity and Screening: Utilizing symbols or letters appropriate for the child's age to assess clarity of sight

• Objective Refraction and Binocular Testing: Measure prescription needs and evaluate how the eyes work together

• Ocular Health Check: Inspect the eye structures to rule out disease or anatomical issues

• Clear Communication and Next Steps: Our doctors will share their findings with the parent/caregiver(s), and discuss any eyewear needs or referrals for follow up care.

The Kids Zone at Edge Optics

Our Kids Zone is designed to be a fun and engaging space where children can play and explore while waiting for their exam (or for their parents to finish their exams).

We have a variety of tactile toys, or kids can enjoy our 4 in 1 arcade games with Mortal Kombat, Pac-Man, Rampage, and Galaga. We also have coloring books, puzzles, and even a rock climbing wall! It's a place where kids of all ages can have fun and feel comfortable-just another reason why Edge Optics is not your typical eye doctor's office.

Common Signs of Vision Problems in Children

Kids often don't realize their eyes or vision are bothering them-they may think what they see or experience is normal vision. An annual eye exam is the best way to ensure your child is seeing their best. It is recommended for children to have their first eye exam between 6 months and 3 years of age to evaluate healthy vision development and address any concerns

You can also watch for these subtle clues that your child might have a vision problem. If you observe any of these concerns, contact us today to schedule your child for an exam by a trusted pediatric optometrist.

If you notice any of these, our pediatric eye care team can help diagnose and manage the issue—early treatment can make a big difference.

• Frequent squinting, head tilting, or eye rubbing

• Complaints of headaches or tired eyes during reading or screen use (screen time strain)

• Sitting too close to screens or holding books very near

• Difficulty with hand‑eye coordination, blurry vision, or misaligned eyes (strabismus/amblyopia)

Our Pediatric Optometrists

At Edge Optics, your child's vision is cared for by two highly skilled pediatric Optometrists, Dr. Laura Szuba and Dr. Michelle Mitchell, who bring a warm and patient centered approach to every visit. Together, they combine medical expertise with a fun, supportive environment to ensure every child receives thorough, personalized eye care that sets the foundation for healthy vision and confident learning.

Dr. Laura Szuba

Dr. Szuba focuses on early detection of eye conditions, visual development, and providing gentle, reassuring care that helps children feel comfortable during their exams.

Dr. Michelle Mitchell

Dr. Mitchell specializes in pediatric vision and advanced myopia management, offering solutions to slow the progression of nearsightedness as kids grow.

Frequently asked questions

Why Choose Edge Optics for my child's vision care?

Edge Optics offers top-rated pediatric optometrists in Fort Collins, specializing in children’s vision. Their friendly, experienced doctors focus on early detection and kid-friendly exams, earning consistent 5-star reviews for expertise and care.

What is a pediatric eye exam?

A pediatric eye exam is a comprehensive vision and health screening tailored for children. We check visual acuity, eye tracking, focusing, eye alignment, and perform gentle health testing. Our goal is to detect refractive errors like nearsightedness or astigmatism—and support proper eye development.

When should a child have their first eye exam?

We recommend the first pediatric eye exam between 6 months and 3 years old, then again before starting school (around age 3–5) and every 1–2 years through the school years. If your child shows early signs of vision problems, earlier or more frequent exams may be advised.

How can I tell if my child has a visual problem?

Parents should be vigilant for signs that may indicate vision problems in children. Common indicators include squinting, frequent eye rubbing, difficulty focusing on objects, or avoiding near tasks like reading. Additionally, if a child complains of headaches or shows signs of frustration during visual tasks, these may be signs of underlying issues.

Do you accept insurance for kids eye exams?

We accept most major vision insurances, including VSP, EyeMed, Medicaid, and more. Coverage and copays vary based on your specific plan—our front desk can walk you through the details. Our staff is always happy to help you, just give us a call and we'll answer all your questions!

If I don't have insurance, how much will a kids eye exam cost?

Pricing depends on your child’s age and the level of testing needed. If you don't have insurance-no problem! Ask our team about our VIP Discount Club! We have options for families and kids without vision insurance. Our staff is always happy to help walk you through the options we have for you and your family's eye care! Just give us a call and we'll answer all your questions!

Why Choose Edge Optics?

Edge Optics is proud member of our local community with a philanthropic heart and an understanding of our potential to change lives by supporting the social well-being of other local businesses and community members. We sponsor and support many charitable organizations and local sports teams; such as Homeward Alliance, where we donate eye care and eyewear to homeless to encourage job security.

We offer fresh, innovative eye care and advanced technology in prescription and non-prescription glasses at competitive prices!

Edge Optics works hard to offer sunglasses, goggles, and eyeglasses that suit the active Colorado lifestyle.

✅ Family-Owned Business
✅ Competitive Pricing
✅ Super Cool Waiting Area For Kids!
✅ Eco-Conscious
✅ Philanthropic & Community Minded
✅ Unique Iris Photography
✅ Dry Eye Treatment
✅ Myopia Control
✅ Fashion Eyewear & Unique, Stylish Frames