In April 2025, The College of Optometrists, Association of British Dispensing Opticians (ABDO) and Optical Suppliers Association published a report showing that many parents were confused about when and where to seek eye care for their children. The three organisations commissioned research with Mumsnet to explore parents’ awareness of the importance of children’s eye tests. 

The research shows that nearly one in 10 parents or carers (9%) surveyed will only take their child for their first visit to the optometrist when an eye health or vision issue arises. Over half (53%) of parents would go straight to their GP for an eye infection and over a third (34%) would go to their GP for eye discomfort rather than an optometrist (COptom, 2025).

Denise Voon MCOptom, Clinical Adviser at the College, says: “It’s not surprising that many parents are confused about when and where to go for children’s eye care. The children’s health record, known as ‘the red book’, and the parents’ handbook for children’s health and development don’t currently include information or advice about children’s eye health and eye tests.”