FEBRUARY 2026

ROP is an eye disease that occurs in some babies who:

• Are born prematurely (earlier than 30 weeks of pregnancy)
• Have low birth weight (less than 3 lb. 5 oz or 1,500 g)
• Have complications after they are born and receive extra oxygen for 5 days or longer, especially at higher oxygen levels

The following ROP resources can be shared with families of babies in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU), where some babies will receive ROP exams. Resources can also be shared with pediatric primary care offices, childcare programs, Early Intervention programs, schools, programs serving children with vision impairment or blindness, and family support organizations.

As part of our Love Your Eyes campaign, send a Valentine to Congress urging support for tthe Early Detection of Vision Impairments for Children (EDVI) Act, strong federal investment in vision and eye health programs, and leadership through the Congressional Vision Caucus. Share why early detection and access to care matter for children and communities.

Learn more about getting professional eye care for yourself and your family.

Did you know that age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a leading cause of vision loss in Americans aged 50 years and older? AMD affects central vision, the area where sharpest vision occurs, causing difficulty conducting daily tasks such as driving, reading, and recognizing faces.

Low vision aids can make the most of remaining vision. Check out Prevent Blindness’ Living Well With Low Vision for resources.

Lesson: Why Children Wear Glasses

This lesson teaches young children ages 4, 5, and 6 years about how eyeglasses help peers see better and are objects that should be respected/cared for. Children learn why it is important to be empathetic toward individuals who wear glasses through the three activities in this lesson: the Arthur's Eyes book, Blurry Eyeglasses, and “Pin” the Eyeglasses on the Lion. 

Lesson: Eye Safety and Sun Protection

This lesson teaches children ages 4, 5, and 6 years how to keep their eyes safe from the sun and everyday hazards while playing outside or at home. Through a safety gear scavenger hunt and a craft activity, children will learn to wear sunglasses and use protective eye gear to prevent eye injuries.

Lesson: Eye-Grabbing Healthy Foods

This lesson teaches children ages 4, 5, and 6 years about healthy foods that support eye health, including colorful, vitamin-rich foods, such as carrots, broccoli, and oranges. Through activities with flashcards and a memory game, children learn to identify foods they already enjoy and new foods they can try.

Thanks to the Delta Gamma Foundation for partial funding of these lessons.

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