Did you know that one in four children ages 5 to 12 has an undiagnosed vision problem that may affect their educational performance? Or that 80 percent of all learning in a youngster�s first 12 years is through the vision system? Yet, children are the least likely age group to visit an eye care professional according to the Better Vision Institute.

Many educators all too often rely on the Snellen (Big E) chart to screen children for vision problems. Yet, a Snellen chart screening will detect only 20-30 percent of vision problems. The importance of a child�s vision cannot be overestimated. Just as routine dental care is important an annual eye exam can detect vision problems that can save years of frustration and difficulty in school.

This issue is on the forefront of debate among optometrists, ophthalmologists, pediatricians, and policy makers since Kentucky last year began a statewide mandate that requires all children entering school to get an eye exam. Proponents of the mandate say all children need eye exams. Mere vision screenings at school or the family doctor are inconsistent, incomplete, and are not routinely administered. Problems like amblyopia that aren�t caught by fourth grade can become irreversible. Parents often don�t know or understand the difference between a school screening and a comprehensive vision exam. Many parents get a false sense of security when their child passes a screening, but these screenings rarely address near or binocular vision.

If your child squints, complains of frequent headaches, tilts her head, closes one eye, holds material close, etc; these could all be signs of undiagnosed vision problems or a change in prescription if they already wear glasses. Vision changes are frequent in children due to growth spurts, and can be significant in as little as 6 months. This summer when you are planning your activities, schedule your children for a comprehensive vision examination so they will be ready to do their best when school starts.