Eye exams are as important to children’s health as regular check-ups at the pediatrician. Good vision is essential for a child, both developmentally and academically. About 80% of learning in a child’s first 12 years comes through the eyes*, and poor vision can slow a child’s reading. In short, good vision is as essential as learning the ABCs.

To maximize development and learning, as well as to identify vision problems early, the American Optometric Association recommends every child have a professional eye exam shortly after birth, by six months of age and again just prior to entering school. Once in school, children should receive annual eye exams. Unfortunately, more than 12.1 million school-age children in the United States have some form of vision problem, but as few as 14% of children receive an eye exam before entering first grade.**

To get your child on his or her way to better health, locate an EyeMed provider near you today. You and your child can also view our video about what to expect at an eye appointment.

*Source: American Optometric Association
**College of Optometrists in Vision Development, August 2004