Catholic Education has teamed with Optometry Queensland to promote the screening of children’s eyesight before entering school. Smart Eye Start is an initiative of Optometry Queensland that provides comprehensive eye examinations by member optometrists, for children entering the Catholic school system. Without early detection, eye conditions can negatively impact on a child’s social and educational development, and in some cases, increase the risk of total blindness in adulthood.
This comprehensive eye examination will ensure the one in four children with significant eye conditions do not go undetected. Parents are encouraged to take their child to an optometrist, either listed on the form or one of their choice, and return the form to their Catholic school when their child starts Prep. Children who have already started school without screening are encouraged to also participate in the program, as soon as possible in the Early Years.