* Up to 1 million children in the UK currently have an undetected vision problem

* Over 90% of children visit a dentist regularly* Yet only 53% of children have ever had an eye examination

* 84% of parents agree that improved vision would have a positive impact on their child’s performance at school

* Good eyesight is crucial for a child’s development - at school and socially * Many eye conditions do not display any symptoms* Children are often unaware that their vision is not perfect

* Children with a family history of eye problems are more likely to develop squints and lazy eyes* Signs of children’s sight problems include: difficulty concentrating, behavioural problems, headaches, sitting too close to the television and rubbing their eyes a lot

* It’s easy for us to neglect our eyes - they don’t usually hurt when there is something wrong* The eye is still developing throughout childhood so if problems are treated early it can make a difference that lasts a lifetime* Good eyesight is crucial for a child’s development at school and socially* Anyone can develop sight problems – but it is especially important to look after children’s eyes

* Include a sight test in your ‘back to school’ routine* After the first test it is advisable to return every two years - or as recommended by your optometrist

* Up to the age of 16 (or 19 if still in full-time education)* Plus an Optical Voucher entitles you to help towards the cost of glasses or contact lenses

* Get outdoors – regular play and exercise can help with eye health - studies show a minimum of 1 hour of outdoor activity a day helps develop good vision* Try to eat healthily and keep hydrated

* Protect your child’s eyes from the sun – never let them look directly into the sun * Always wear good quality sunglasses - they should always carry the ‘CE’ quality mark and the British Standard BS EN 1836:2005 giving 100% UV protection

* Visit www.aop.org.uk/childrenseyehealth* Email childrenseyecare@aop.org.uk* Telephone 020 7202 6653

“We are gathering scientific evidence of the importance of eye care for children, as well as producing a policy statement on children’s eye health. This will include the issue of vision screening and key stage interventions to ensure all children have access to eye care at the time they need it and, as a consequence, are fully able to develop their social and educational potential.”

Polly Dulley, Chair of the AOP Children’s Eyecare Initiative