VSP Blog

Did you know that 80% of what you learn is through your eyes? And, more than 60% of children with learning problems have undiagnosed vision problems?

Many parents rely on school vision screenings to check for vision problems. Here’s why that isn’t enough:

• The main point of school vision screenings is to check how well a child can read a chart from 20 feet away (called distance vision) – this is by no means a comprehensive eye exam.
• Problems with seeing close-up (near vision) are not always tested during a screening.
• A child can easily pass a vision screening, but not see well enough to read a book.
• Vision screenings are extremely difficult for children less than 4 years of age.
• Vision screenings can miss some of the most common vision problems, including eye coordination (making sure both eyes are working together), lazy eye and farsightedness.
• Only an annual eye exam can check the health of an eye and ensure that they are disease-free.

As students around the country begin to go back to school, remember to make an appointment for your child to receive a comprehensive eye exam in order for them to maximize their ability to learn. Many parents do not know about the challenges students face, such as needing glasses, until they take their child in for a comprehensive eye exam.  Check out SeeMuchMore.com and learn how you can give your child the best chance.

To support VSP in our mission to increase access to quality eyecare for thousands of children in need, please take the free Eye Pledge. When you pledge to take care of your eyes VSP will direct a gift certificate for an eye exam and glasses to a Boys & Girls Club member in need in your community.

Take the VSP Eye Pledge now and help a child be better prepared to go back to school and learn to his or her full potential!