Education

Vision screenings are limited and cannot be used to diagnose an eye or vision problem, but rather to indicate a potential need for further evaluation.

Many vision screenings test for visual acuity only. According to a study funded by the National Eye Institute, even with highly trained screeners, 1/3 of children with eye or vision disorders can be missed. A child may be able to see an eye chart 20 feet away, but their vision up close when reading a book may be reduced, or there could be a health issue or vision perception problem.

Less than 50% of children who were identified in screenings as needing a full eye exam, actually received that care. The average time between the recommendation for the eye exam and the scheduled exam is 18 months. In a complete eye examination, visual acuity is measured at multiple distances. Focusing or accommodation, the ability to shift focus from up close to far away and back with accuracy and comfort, is measured. Visual alignment and ocular motility, the way the muscles aim, both converging and diverging together which helps with depth perception. Eye Tracking can be measured to make sure a child can accurately track the letters across the page. Color vision can be evaluated, ocular health is evaluated.

The American Optometric Association (AOA) recommends that a child receive a comprehensive eye exam at 6 months old, three years old, upon entering school, and every two years thereafter. Good vision is an important part of education. Many experts believe 80% of learning is done through a child’s eyes. Reading, computer use and overheads, chalk boards, and white boards are all visual tasks students perform every day. A child’s eyes are always at use in the classroom. If your child’s vision is not working properly, learning and class participation will suffer.