Since eighty percent of what children learn comes from their eyes and vision, eye care professionals believe it is importance to detect vision problems before they affect a child's performance in school.  It is estimated that one in six children has a vision problem.

The vision screening program is designed to identify children who have trouble seeing things at a distance, up close, or who have difficulty making both eyes work together. The vision screening does not replace a complete eye exam and will not identify every child with a eye problem. 

The Ontario Association of Optometrists recommends that every child have his or her first eye examination by the age of six months, and when no abnormalities are detected, again at the age of three. Annual eye examination are recommended for school aged children, and are covered by Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP).   

Indicators of vision problems in children include:

• attempts to brush away blurred vision
• blinking more than usual
• rubbing eyes frequently
• squinting when focusing on distant objects
• frowning excessively or tilting of the head from one side
• stumbling over small objects
• sensitivity to light
• red, swollen, or encrusted eyelids
• recurring sties in the eyes
• inflamed or watery eyes

Click here for last year's photos.

Click here for CTV Health Report, 'Kids' eye problems often emerge in homework battle'    

Click here for more information on Vision Screening from Lions Club International