Many children have undiagnosed vision problems because of poor awareness of screening facilities and a low uptake of NHS tests.
According to a new report, which is backed by the optical bodies, screening arrangements for children are failing and the authors recommend the government works more closely with the optical sector to promote the availability of NHS tests for children at high street practices.
The report quotes research from Aston University that reveals one in 20 six- to seven-year-olds has an uncorrected vision problem and by the age of 12 to 13 this figure rises to one in 10.
The authors also point out that undetected problems can seriously damage a child's eye health and affect their social and academic development.
Findings suggest that the level of vision screening varies across the UK, and there has been no review of the current programme or its effectiveness since its inception.
Commenting on the report, David Butler, chief executive, National Confederation of Parent Teacher Associations, said: 'Poor eye health can have a significant impact on a child's learning and so it is vital for parents to know what they need to be aware of.'
Professor David Thomson, head of Optometry and Visual Sciences at City University, added: 'A publicity campaign may help raise awareness. This should be backed up with high quality vision screening in schools ideally at the age of four to five, seven and 11.'