New research has revealed a concerning trend in children’s eye health, with a quarter of children in the UK never having had an eye test. This lack of uptake has remained low for the past 15 years, despite the potential impact on children’s learning and development.
The study found that over a quarter of parents (26%) reported that their child had experienced problems at school that could be linked to vision issues. The most common problems included struggling to see the whiteboard (37%), having to move to the front of the classroom to see (33%), and experiencing headaches (28%). These issues can significantly impact a child’s ability to learn and participate in school activities.
Despite previous research conducted by Specsavers in 2009 showing that just under a quarter (23%) of children aged between 3-12 had never had an eye test, little progress has been made in increasing the uptake of eye tests among children. To address this concerning trend, Specsavers has launched its first-ever ‘eye screen’ van to raise awareness about children’s eye health and encourage parents to prioritize eye tests for their children.
The eye screen van made its debut on London’s South Bank and at The Royal Botanical Garden in Edinburgh. Equipped with visual screeners and ice lollies to attract children, the van aimed to identify potential eyesight problems in children and alert parents if further testing was needed. This initiative by Specsavers is a step towards making eye tests more accessible and engaging for children and their parents.
The latest survey also uncovered some common reasons why parents have not taken their child for an eye test. The top reasons included not noticing any visible problems (35%), not having mentioned a problem to their child’s healthcare provider (22%), not being advised that their child needs an eye test (21%), and not knowing at what age their child should have one (15%). These findings highlight the need for increased education and awareness about the importance of regular eye examinations for children.
Specsavers clinical services director, Giles Edmonds, emphasized the importance of regular eye exams for children, stating, “Ensuring your child has regular eye examinations from an early age is incredibly important for several reasons. Given that more than 80% of our learning, cognitive, and social abilities are facilitated through our sight, it’s crucial to your child’s overall development. Poor eyesight can lead to learning and behavioral problems, and conditions such as squinting and amblyopia (lazy eye) can be treated more effectively if detected early.”
Children under the age of 16, as well as those under 19 in full-time education, are entitled to an NHS-funded eye test and a free pair of glasses at any high street opticians. However, over one in five (22%) parents are not aware of this benefit. This highlights the need for increased awareness and access to eye care services for children.
In an effort to make eye tests more engaging for children, Specsavers has introduced friendly ‘Optomonsters’ to their stores. These playful characters aim to make the optician experience more enjoyable and less intimidating for children. By creating a fun and welcoming environment, Specsavers hopes to encourage more children to have their eyes tested regularly.
With the back-to-school season approaching, parents are busy preparing for the new school year. However, eye tests often rank low on the list of priorities, with only 20% of parents prioritizing them alongside dental checks (22%). This underscores the need for increased awareness about the importance of regular eye exams for children’s overall health and well-being.
The research also revealed that children themselves may be reluctant to get their eyes tested due to fears and misconceptions. Over a third (35%) of children are scared or worried about the test, while almost a third (30%) don’t know what to expect. Additionally, one in five (20%) fear the dark, which may impact their willingness to undergo an eye examination. By addressing these fears and providing a supportive and reassuring environment, opticians can help children feel more comfortable during the testing process.
In conclusion, the findings of this study highlight the need for increased awareness and access to eye care services for children. Regular eye examinations are essential for detecting and treating vision problems early, which can have a significant impact on children’s learning and development. By prioritizing eye health and making eye tests more engaging and accessible for children, we can ensure that all children have the opportunity to see clearly and thrive in school and beyond.