Ontario Optometrists Celebrating Children’s Vision Health Month © 2019 Sharomka/Shutterstock
In the early years of a child’s life, a world of discovery awaits them. From the first time they recognize their parents’ faces to the colourful excitement of their first day of school, these moments are captured through the lens of a child’s vision. But what happens when that vision is impaired? Enter the optometrists of Ontario—often unsung heroes in the development of young minds—who work tirelessly to ensure that every child sees the world clearly.
At the forefront of this mission is the Ontario Association of Optometrists (OAO) and their remarkable Eye See… Eye Learn® program. This initiative is more than just a vision care program; it’s a lifeline for countless families and a testament to the dedication of optometrists who understand that vision is the gateway to learning and success.
The Visionary Program: Eye See… Eye Learn®
Launched over 20 years ago, the Eye See… Eye Learn® program was created with a singular purpose: to ensure that every child in Ontario has access to comprehensive eye care. The program targets kindergarten-aged children, a crucial period when early detection of vision problems can significantly affect a child’s development and academic journey.
The premise is simple but powerful. Children eligible for the program receive a no-cost eye exam from a participating optometrist, and if required, they are also provided with a complimentary pair of high-quality glasses. This removes any financial barrier that might prevent parents from seeking eye care for their children, ensuring that vision problems do not become a roadblock to a child’s learning and overall well-being.
Dr. Jeff Goodhew, a participating optometrist, highlights the impact of the program: “The Eye See… Eye Learn® program has eliminated any financial barriers to parents by providing a complementary pair of high-quality eyeglasses when required. Overall, a great initiative to ensure a child’s learning is not impeded by poor vision.”
Last year alone, the program provided over 2,600 pairs of complimentary glasses to children across Ontario. This achievement underscores the program’s success in making vision care accessible to all, regardless of a family’s financial situation.
Optometrists: The Heroes Behind the Scenes
Optometrists are often the first line of defence in a child’s healthcare. They play a critical role in identifying vision problems that could otherwise go unnoticed, potentially leading to difficulties in school and social development. The Eye See… Eye Learn® program is supported by over 1,100 optometrists across Ontario, each of whom is committed to ensuring that no child falls through the cracks.
Dr. Shaina Nensi, President of the Ontario Association of Optometrists, articulates the importance of this initiative: “Ensuring children’s vision health is crucial for their development. Routine eye exams help detect issues early, giving them the best chance to succeed in school and life. Our Eye See… Eye Learn® program is dedicated to making this accessible for all families.”
This program is not just about handing out glasses; it’s about changing lives. Children who struggle with undiagnosed vision issues often face challenges in reading, writing, and participating in classroom activities. By providing early intervention, optometrists are helping to level the playing field for these children, giving them the tools they need to succeed.
Who Is Eligible?
The Eye See… Eye Learn® program is available to all children in kindergarten born in 2019 or 2020 that are in any junior or senior kindergarten program. Families are encouraged to take advantage of the program, especially since vision problems can be hard to detect in young children. Many children with vision issues don’t realize that their experience isn’t normal and may not complain about difficulties seeing. This makes it all the more critical for parents to ensure their child receives an eye exam before starting school.
How to Participate
Participating in the Eye See… Eye Learn® program is straightforward. Parents or guardians of kindergarten-aged students can book an eye exam with any participating optometrist in Ontario. The eye exam is covered by OHIP, making it free of charge for the family. If the optometrist determines that the child needs glasses, they will be able to choose a pair from a selection of high-quality frames and lenses provided at no cost.
To find a participating optometrist, families can visit the Eye See… Eye Learn® website to find one of almost 500 participating locations.
The Impact: Beyond the Classroom
The benefits of the Eye See… Eye Learn® program extend far beyond the classroom. Vision is integral to nearly every aspect of a child’s development, from learning to read to developing hand-eye coordination. Correcting a child’s vision not only improves their academic performance but also boosts their confidence and social interactions.
The program also serves as a reminder of optometrists’ broader role in the healthcare system. These dedicated professionals are not just correcting vision; they are empowering the next generation to achieve their full potential. By identifying and addressing vision problems early, optometrists are helping to ensure that every child has the opportunity to thrive.
The success of the Eye See… Eye Learn® program is a testament to the power of community and collaboration. It relies on the commitment of optometrists who go above and beyond to serve their communities and the support of organizations and businesses that provide the resources needed to supply complimentary glasses to children in need.
As the program continues to grow, so too does its impact. With each child who receives an eye exam and a new pair of glasses, the ripple effects are felt throughout the community. Teachers notice improvements in students’ performance, parents see their children’s confidence soar, and most importantly, children are given the gift of clear vision—a gift that will benefit them for the rest of their lives.
Optometrists may not wear capes, but they are undoubtedly heroes in the eyes of the children and families they serve. And with every pair of glasses they provide, they are helping to shape a clearer, brighter future for all.
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The Ontario Association of Optometrists (OAO) is the leading professional organization representing over 2,000 optometrists in Ontario for over 100 years. We are dedicated to helping our members provide the highest standard of eye health and vision care for Ontarians while driving the profession of optometry forward at the government, regulatory and public levels.