It’s that time again! Backpacks, lunch bags, pencils, pens… the never-ending list for back to school. But wait… is something missing? 

I recently had the pleasure of bringing my son to the Loblaw Optical Department, at the East York Loblaws in Toronto, for his yearly eye exam. As a mother and teacher, I can appreciate the importance of vision care, and as such, believe that an eye exam should be a regular part of every parent’s back to school routine. I’ve frequently seen first-hand how difficult school can become for a student who struggles to see clearly. Eyeglasses, with the proper prescription, can sometimes mean the difference between failure and success in the classroom. However, according to the recent Loblaw Kids Eye Health Survey, a concerning 35% of Canadian parents do not plan to schedule an appointment to have their children’s eyes checked before school begins. Luckily, Loblaw Optical Departments, have made it even easier for busy moms and dads to bring their kids to get their eyes checked. With their optical labs conveniently located in store, parents can easily do their grocery shopping, while their eyewear prescriptions are being filled.

While my son had his eyes checked, I had the opportunity to speak with the optician on the topic of current eye care issues with children, and some important vision facts. He explained that today’s children are now in front of tablet and computer screens more than ever before, at home and at school, and that long and frequent exposure will, sadly, affect their sight. Unfortunately, even with this increased need in eye examinations, the number of children who are being brought in to have their vision checked yearly is not increasing. He also mentioned that parents should be made aware of the many benefits that are available through OHIP for vision care for children. For example, even if a child has had their eyes checked, but new concerns or problems arise throughout the year, parents are always able to bring their child back at any time, for additional appointments, free of charge. Also of note is The Kids See Free Program, which ensures that children aged 4-10 years receive any frame, valued up to $49.00, with kids safe polycarbonate lenses, for free. (Additional upgrades to the frames and/or lenses are not included.)  Ultimately, with all of these facts and information in mind, the importance of having your children’s eyes examined couldn’t be any clearer!

The Kids See Free Program is available at Optical Departments at Real Canadian Superstore, Loblaws, Zehrs, Fortinos, Your Independent Grocer, Atlantic Superstore, and Dominion Stores in Newfoundland.

Disclosure: This is a sponsored post. Any opinions expressed in this post are my own.