Often I get this question from parents whose children have passed a screening at the pediatrician’s office. I understand why parents feel this way. Most people think that “seeing” means being able to read the distance eye chart. However, that is only a small part of how children (and adults) use their eyes in today’s world. Think of how much we all need to see up close to read, work on the computer, and use handheld devices/games. Although the pediatrician screening is important, there is no substitute for a comprehensive eye exam to access all aspects of the visual system and the health of the eyes. 
I examine children whose parents and teachers think they have attention problems. After an exam, I find that the child sees well, but cannot focus on something close for an extended amount of time. For example, although the child can see the words in a book, he cannot keep them clear for more than a few minutes. In this case vision training or reading glasses can drastically change the child’s ability to learn.

Since 90% of what children learn comes from vision, I believe all children deserve to see their best to maximize achievement. I feel so strongly about this that I participate in the InfantSEE program. Through this national program, we provide no cost eye exams for infants 6-12 months old regardless of parents’ income. 

The American Optometric Association recommends eye exams at 6 months, 3 years, just before kindergarten, and then every 1-2 years depending on need.I encourage all parents to call today and schedule appointments for their children.For more information about children’s vision visit http://aoa.org/x9451.xml