KINDER READY
Helping your child see, learn, and grow as they start their next chapter.
If your child is starting kindergarten, KinderReady helps ensure their vision is ready for the classroom.
A comprehensive eye exam can detect and address vision issues before they impact learning and development—so your child can focus on seeing, learning, and growing.
WHY EYE EXAMS MATTER
Learning is visual
Children rely heavily on their vision to learn—reading the board, following along in books, and engaging in the classroom. In fact, 1 in 4 school-aged children have a vision problem that may affect their learning.
Vision issues aren’t always obvious
Children don’t always recognize or communicate vision problems. While some signs exist, like squinting or moving closer to see, many issues go unnoticed without a comprehensive eye exam.
Early support makes a difference
Addressing vision concerns early helps prevent learning challenges and supports confidence, development, and long-term success.
WHAT KinderReady INCLUDES
Comprehensive Eye Exam
A full eye exam with an optometrist to assess your child’s vision and eye health.
First Pair of Glasses
If prescribed, your child receives their first pair of glasses at no cost, including proper fitting and adjustments.
Myopia Coverage
If your child is diagnosed with myopia (nearsightedness), the program covers the cost of their first lenses and frame.
HOW IT WORKS
PREPARING FOR THE FIRST VISIT
We make your child’s first eye exam simple and stress-free with a few surprises along the way. To help your child feel comfortable, explore the videos below to see what to expect.
Book your child’s eye exam
Behind the scenes –children’s eye exam
How to pick your frames
FAQs
Who qualifies for KinderReady, and what does my child receive?
KinderReady is available to children entering or currently in kindergarten who receive a comprehensive eye exam at an FYidoctors clinic. In provinces with both Junior Kindergarten (JK) and Senior Kindergarten (SK), children in either year are eligible, but the program can only be used once per child.
There are no income or nomination requirements. KinderReady covers the cost of the eye exam and, if your child’s optometrist determines they need glasses, the cost of their glasses.
Is my child's eye exam covered where we live?
Eye exam coverage varies by province and your child’s age. Many provinces provide coverage for children through their provincial health plans or eye care assistance programs. For more information about coverage in your province, visit our Eye Care Coverage in Canada: Provincial Guide.
What's included at no cost, and what costs extra?
KinderReady covers the cost of your child’s comprehensive eye exam and, if glasses are recommended, a pair of glasses at no cost. Additional costs may apply for optional upgrades, such as premium frames, lens upgrades or protection plans.
How long is the appointment, and will my child's eyes be dilated?
A children’s comprehensive eye exam typically takes 15–30 minutes, although it may take longer if additional or specialized testing is needed. Your child’s optometrist will determine whether eye drops are needed as part of the exam. If dilation is recommended, the optometrist will explain why it’s needed and what you can expect.
My child doesn't know all their letters yet — can they still have an eye exam?
Absolutely! Children don’t need to know their letters to have a comprehensive eye exam. Optometrists use age-appropriate, child-friendly tests and symbols to assess vision, eye health and how the eyes are working together.
Can screen time be harmful to my child's eyes?
Spending too much time on screens can contribute to eye strain and discomfort, especially when children spend long periods focusing on something up close. Encourage your child to take regular breaks from screens, spend time outdoors, and avoid extended periods of uninterrupted screen use. Regular eye exams can also help identify vision concerns early.
What is a lazy eye?
“Lazy eye,” also known as amblyopia, happens when one eye develops weaker vision than the other during childhood. It can be related to differences in the prescription between the eyes or how the eyes work together. A comprehensive eye exam can help identify amblyopia early, when treatment can be most effective.
Terms & Conditions
KinderReady will cover the cost of a first pair of prescription glasses for any child entering junior kindergarten or kindergarten across Canada. Where recommended, the program will cover the cost of myopia management lenses; however, standard fees will apply for ongoing myopia management and follow-up appointments. The program includes kids' total package frames with a 1.6 lens or polycarbonate lens, with upgrades available at an additional cost. All covered fees and costs associated with the program will be administered by the KinderReady program including fees above the provincial coverage or personal insurance amounts.
See in-clinic for details. Non-prescription sunglasses and contact lenses do not apply. The offer is only valid with an eye exam at an FYidoctors location. Complimentary eyewear is non-transferable and cannot be redeemed for cash. The offer is not applicable to gift cards or accessories and is valid while supplies last. It cannot be combined with any other discount, offer, promotion, or previous purchase. The offer is applicable to one patient only, and items must be purchased for the same patient. Taxes are extra. The offer has no cash value and is void where prohibited. Discounts are off the in-clinic price. FYidoctors reserves the right to modify or discontinue this promotion without notice.
* Eye exams are part of provincial health care coverage for children under 20 years of age in ONT, under 19 years in BC, AB and MB, under 18 years in SK and under 10 years in NS.
** Each complimentary pair of glasses includes an FYidoctors private or exclusive-label frame and Value Plus lenses. See in-store for details. Non-prescription sunglasses and contact lenses do not apply. Offer only valid with eye exam. Complimentary eyewear is non-transferable and cannot be redeemed for cash.
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