11 million people in the United States struggle with uncorrected vision and have no resources to buy eyeglasses.
Vision disorders–including nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism–are the most common disabling childhood conditions in the United States.
Common vision problems affect 1 in 4 children and adolescents, kindergarten through 12th grade, nationwide.
Approximately 80% of learning occurs through the eyes. This means that a significant number of American children without clear vision are not able to make the most of their education when their eye sight is not properly cared for.
Only 33 states and the District of Columbia have requirements for vision screening in public or private schools. The scope and frequency of these examinations varies from state to state.
Vision problems are often overlooked as a factor for poor educational achievement. A child who is struggling in school may appear to be able to see and does not complain about his or her eyes.
Reading requires a number of different vision skills. Only one of these skills is checked by the typical school eye test. A comprehensive optometric exam covers all vision skills and is a must for every child with difficulty reading.
Seven out of ten parents with children under age six have never taken their children to an eyecare specialist for an eye examination. Of those children who have been checked, only 30 percent have been seen by an eye doctor.
For children, not having glasses when needed can lead to poor self esteem, failure in the classroom, developmental delays, learning disabilities, social maladjustment and even juvenile delinquency.
Prescription eyeglasses can help a child see what she’s been missing–lessons, assignments on the board, ideas in books.
Clear vision drastically improves a child’s academic performance and social behavior.
