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Arrange for regular vision screenings.

Newborns are checked for general eye health in the hospital nursery and at well-baby visits. Three-year-olds need an eye and vision screening test. Illinois requires yearly vision screening for all preschool children 3 years of age or older in any public or private preschool program or licensed child care center. Before they enter kindergarten, children need another vision test and an eye alignment evaluation. If screening finds a problem, the child needs to see an eye doctor.

Be aware of risk factors.

A child may need more frequent eye exams if she was premature or has developmental delays. Other risk factors include an eye injury, other illnesses, or a family history of eye disease.

Learn the signs of possible eye and vision problems.

Parents should talk to their health care provider if their infant's eyes-

• Always turn in or out
• Don't appear to move together normally by age 3 months
• Appear very different from each other
• Don't focus on a parent's face by 3 months, or on toys held in front of him by 6 months

Parents should talk to their health care provider if their preschooler-

• Squints, rubs her eyes, or frequently has teary eyes
• Sits too close to the television or holds a book too close
• Tilts her head or closes one eye to see better
• Is more sensitive to light than her peers
• Avoids activities that require near vision, such as looking at a book, or activities that require distance vision, such as catching a ball
• Complains frequently of headaches or tired eyes

How can I find an eye doctor?

Do you think your child has an eye problem? If so, it's important to take him to an eye doctor for a full exam. Catching eye problems early can prevent later difficulties. Ask your child's regular health care provider for a referral. Many county health departments offer eye tests for children over 3 years old. For general information, contact the Illinois Department of Public Health's Vision and Hearing Program at 800-545-2200 (Voice) or 800-547-0466 (TTY).

If your child needs eyeglasses, let her help pick out the frames. Explain how wearing them will help her see words in a book better or recognize her friends across the playground.