New parents work hard to keep their babies in good health, with frequent trips to a pediatrician to check on growth and development. But how often do they think to take their baby to an optometrist for a special vision screening? According to the public health program InfantSEE, not often.

According to their website, "One in every 10 children is at risk from undiagnosed eye and vision problems, yet only 13 percent of mothers with children younger than 2 years of age said they had taken their babies to see an eye and vision care professional for a regular check-up or well-care visit."

InfantSEE is a public health program run by members of the American Optometric Association in partnership with The Vision Care Institute of Johnson & Johnson Vision Care. InfantSEE's member optometrists will provide a no-cost comprehensive infant eye and vision examination within the child's first year of life. With early diagnosis, vision problems are more treatable and less likely to permanently impact a child's vision.

The Parents' Corner section of the InfantSEE website has all kinds of information about why children should be tested early in life, common vision problems, and what actually goes on during an infant eye examination. If you are interested in taking your child to an InfantSEE doctor, you can easily use their doctor locator to find one in your area. The exam is free, and it is a great way to help keep your child's vision healthy and strong. - Sara I.