A new nationwide survey of nearly 4,000 Americans by VSP Vision Care indicates that 76 percent of children in the U.S. under the age of five have never had a comprehensive eye exam.

For any child, seeing is a vital part of learning.

"They're doing so many developmental things,” said Lori Donnelly. "Learning to read and learning to identify letters and colors. And their vision can affect all those little things, and that can ultimately affect their self esteem, which at this age is so critical."

That's why Donnelly made sure her five-year-old daughter Eliza had her eyes checked by a professional.

"To be proactive so they don't have problems that get worse," Donnelly said.

Most eye doctors start seeing kids between six and 12 months of age. A comprehensive eye exam can identify correctable vision problems, and more serious issues like, cataracts, tumors and glaucoma.

Dr. Robert Ryan said the results of the VSP Survey show that most parents see eye health as a cosmetic issue.

"Unfortunately, it's pediatricians that need to be educated as well, because the message should start from their pediatrician to see an eye professional for a more thorough screening," said Ryan.

The exam takes only a few minutes. For Eliza it was painless. And since some kids may not know they have a vision problem, Donnelly said a trip to the eye doctor is vital to a child's future.

"They don't know to communicate that. That's why it's really good to go to this step. And have that checked out," said Donnelly.