Build your confidence in children's eye care, new CPD and resources now available
ABDO, Boots Opticians, the College and Specsavers have all come together to deliver a public awareness campaign on the importance of children receiving a full sight test before they start school, around three to four years old.
Denise Voon, Clinical Adviser at The College of Optometrists
"Children's vision plays a vital role in their learning, development and wellbeing, yet many eye conditions can develop without obvious symptoms. As we prepare for our public awareness campaign, we want every optometrist to feel confident in delivering high-quality care for young patients. The College's online paediatric learning resources make it easy to refresh clinical knowledge and practical skills and ensure practices are ready to welcome more children through their doors."
Dr Alicia Thompson, Research Director Association, Association of British Dispensing Opticians
"Every child deserves the opportunity to see clearly and reach their full potential. Regular sight tests are essential, but they are only part of the journey to achieving the best possible vision throughout life. If glasses are needed, children should also be seen by a dispensing optician who can ensure their spectacles fit their developing features, feel comfortable, suit their lifestyle, and are accurately fitted so they receive the full benefit of their prescription. Appropriate frame selection and lens positioning are vital to ensure the prescription is delivered correctly. The right pair of glasses can make a huge difference to a child’s vision, both now and in the future, as well as their confidence, development, and everyday experiences.
Sarah Joyce, Chair at FODO
"Every eye examination is an opportunity not only to detect and manage vision and eye health problems early, but also to encourage parents and carers to make regular eye tests part of their child's routine healthcare. Establishing this habit from an early age helps ensure that eye conditions developing later in childhood are identified promptly, enabling timely intervention and the best possible outcomes for a child’s vision, learning and development.
