Eye See…Eye Learn™
in Edmonton

As Advocates for Children's Eye Health, We Actively Take Part in The Eye See…Eye Learn™ Program

Exam Cost: Paid by Alberta Health Care*
Eyeglasses Cost: Free Eye See…Eye Learn Pair When Required
Optomap Photography: Included at no cost to you. (age-dependant)
When: Kindergarten

(Children are covered by Alberta Health Care for one eye exam every year between July 1st—June 30th.)

Eye See, Eye Learn program logo

Eye See…Eye Learn™

The Alberta Government in association with the Alberta Association of Optometrists  developed a great program called Eye See... Eye Learn.

This program was developed to ensure that all children receive an eye health examination by an optometrist before entering Kindergarten. The Eye See... Eye Learn program was initially launched back in 2003 in the Elk Island Public Schools district, but has since grown to cover the entire province of Alberta.

The goal of the program is to ensure that all children have the visual capability to succeed in the academic environment.

To reduce financial barriers for some families, the Alberta Association of Optometrists has partnered with local suppliers and its membership to provide one select pair of eyeglasses at no cost to children in Kindergarten who require them. 

To take part in the Eye See...Eye Learn™ program, your child, must be enrolled in Kindergarten in a participating school division and is required to have an eye examination by an optometrist.

Meet our Optometrists

Dr. Ross McKenzie

Dr. Matt Sobolewski

Image of a child playing with a sensory box in his playroom with a look of excitement on his face.

Unlock the Visual Potential of Your Child

A routine annual eye exam is one of the most important things a parent can do to help set their children up for success.

Kids discover the world around them through 3 main cognitive learning styles: visual, auditory, and kinesthetic. Over time, kids gradually move from tactile or kinesthetic learning to visual and auditory learning. Ensuring that these systems as working optimally is one way to help your child at school and in life.

Eye See…Eye Learn™

Children seldom complain about vision problems because they assume everyone sees what they see. Kids' eye exams are designed to thoroughly test a child's visual system and determine any weaknesses that must be addressed during these crucial developmental years. The goal of the Eye See…Eye Learn™ is to ensure that every child is set up for success at school.

Are You Concerned about Myopia or Nearsightedness in Your Kids?

Myopia is a widespread visual condition impacting about 30% of the population. However, by 2050, it is projected to affect 50% of the global population and about 58% of Canadians. Furthermore, myopia is increasingly prevalent in younger ages, beginning as early as 6-7 years of age and advancing faster than previous generations. Myopia is more than just needing glasses or contact lenses; it can also increase the risk of cataracts, glaucoma, and retinal detachments.

Visit our myopia management section to learn what you can do as a parent to help slow the progression in your kids. Early intervention is the key.

Percentage of People in the World with Myopia. Then and Now Graph
Eye Exam Room of Dr. Ross McKenzie Optometrist at Helio Optometry in West Edmonton

What Does a Kids Eye Exam Involve.

At Helio Optometry, we take routine eye exams one step further to ensure that you leave understanding your eye health and your options for vision correction. Our comprehensive eye exams include the following:

  • Optomap Ultra-Widefield Digital Retinal Imaging with a detailed explanation in the exam room (age-dependent).

  • Eye Pressure Screening for Glaucoma (age dependant).

  • A review of school and hobbies for specialized visual requirements.

  • A detailed medical history of eye-related conditions.

  • A detailed ocular history.

  • A thorough eye health examination.

  • A thorough vision examination with digital auto-refraction and manual refraction for eyeglasses.

  • A review of our findings and recommendations at the conclusion.

  • A copy of your eyeglass prescription.

Don't Delay! Book Your Children's Eye See...Eye Learn™ Eye Exams Today.

Common Questions About the Eye See…Eye Learn™ Program.

  • All children in kindergarten are eligible from August 1st, until the day they start Grade 1.

  • That’s ok, your child is still eligible to participate in the program and can still get a free pair of eyeglasses through the program.

  • Not a problem. We have many ways that we can check your child’s vision. We use fun machines, movies, and kid friendly eye charts.

  • Every child is entitled a complete eye exam with an optometrist. Plus, if they need eyeglasses they are covered for a complete pair of Eye See…Eye Learn™ glasses, which come with a one-year manufacturer warranty.

Sunglasses for Your Kids: An Absolute Must

Because of the sensitive eye tissues, the eyes of children and teens are at high risk of sun damage - including reflected sunlight on water, sand, snow and roads. This makes sunglasses essential for protecting young eyes. Every child should have a pair of quality UV-400 protective sunglasses.

Helio Optometry believes in the benefits of quality sunglasses so much that we provide all children ages 3-10 with a FREE pair of non-prescription sunglasses from our kid’s line after their eye exam.