Page 18 - Work Force September 2024

The importance of eye exams for children
As the school year approaches, it’s vital to ensure that your child is ready for academic success. One essential step in this preparation
is scheduling a comprehensive eye exam.
For many
CSEA members,
this is made
easier and more
affordable through
negotiated
Employee Benefit
Fund vision
plans, which
play a crucial role in protecting our children’s health and educational outcomes.
Value of a negotiated vision plan
CSEA members with an EBF vision plan include state government employees, Unified Court System
Taking Care of Business
Legal Services Plan
Workers’ Compensation
Social Security Disability Benefits
Personal Injury Claim
Veterans Disability Benefits
employees, local government employees with the EBF Silver, Gold, Platinum and Member Plus Vision Plans and eligible retirees. These plans make it possible for parents
to prioritize their children’s eye health without worrying about high costs.
Regular eye exams and glasses can be expensive, but with a vision plan, they become
an accessible and routine part of your child’s health care, ensuring that potential issues are identified early.
If your local government unit (towns, villages, school districts, etc.) currently does not have vision coverage, several comprehensive
and competitive vision plan
options are available from the CSEA Employee Benefit Fund to put on the table during contract negotiations.
If your unit is interested in learning more, contact the your region’s local government Senior Benefit Specialist.. Find your specialist at cseaebf.com/benefits_ specialists.php.
Signs your child may need glasses
Children might not realize they have vision problems, so it’s important to watch for signs that they may need glasses. Common indicators include:
• Squinting to focus better.
• Sitting too close to screens. • Frequent headaches after
reading or doing homework.
• Covering one eye to see better. • Struggles with schoolwork
that may indicate vision issues.
When should children start getting eye exams?
The American Optometric Association recommends that children have their first eye exam at six months old, again at age
3, and then just before starting school, around age 5 or 6. School- age children should have an eye
exam every two years, or annually if they wear glasses or contacts. Early detection is crucial, as untreated vision problems can lead to permanent issues and affect academic performance. All EBF vision plans cover an exam and materials once annually for dependents under age 19.
The academic connection
Clear vision is essential for learning, with about 80% of early learning being visual. If a child struggles to see the board, read,
or focus, their education and well-being can suffer. Addressing vision problems early can prevent frustration and ensure your child is set up for success in school and life.
The union difference
As CSEA members, we have access to negotiated vision benefits that
can make a significant difference in our children’s lives. As the school year begins, take advantage of your negotiated EBF vision plan and schedule an eye exam for your child. Ensuring your child has clear vision is a simple yet profound way to support their academic journey and long-term health. Let’s make sure every child has the visual tools they need to succeed.
CSEA Legal Services Program
The CSEA Legal Department oversees the Legal Services Program and CSEA has endorsed the statewide law firm of Fine, Olin & Anderman, LLP, to represent members for injury-related matters. For further information, call the CSEA Legal Department
at 1-800-342-4146 or FOA directly at 1-800-522-9001.
18 The Work Force
September 2024
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