Ask an Eyecare Professional

Do you have a question you would like to ask an eyecare professional? Submit it here and we’ll be sure to get it answered for you. Check back periodically to see other questions and responses posted in this section. To view recent inquiries, see below.

Q. How do I know if my child may need glasses?
- Cindy, New York, NY

A. The Vision Council of America recommends that everyone has a regular eye exam. Be sure to take your child to an Eyecare Professional for a check-up if you observe him or her sitting up close to the television set, holding objects very close to the face, or having trouble seeing the blackboard at school. If you learn your child does need glasses, be sure to consider photochromic lenses which change from light to dark when ultraviolet light is present. They have an eye health advantage by automatically providing 100% blockage from harmful UV rays.

Q. My child is not allowed to wear sunglasses on the playground at school. Any recommendations?
- Mark, Richmond, VA

A. First things first. Not all sunglasses are created equal, so be sure that your child's lenses block 100% of harmful UV radiation. Your local Eyecare Professional should be able to test them for you. Once you are sure your child's glasses are providing adequate protection, we suggest sending a note in to school letting the teacher and nurse know that you prefer your child to wear sunglasses when outside. Feel free to suggest they visit this site for more information on the dangers of UV radiation.

The following websites are additional resources about eye treatment and eyecare professionals:

AAO.org – American Academy of Ophthalmology
AOA.org – American Optometric Association
opto.ca – Canadian Association of Optometrists
cnib.ca – Canadian National Institute for the blind
eyesite.ca – Canadian Ophthalmology Society

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