Vision Screening
One in 20 preschoolers and one in four school-age children are affected by vision problems. Untreated eye problems in a child can: worsen, lead to serious problems in a child’s ability to learn affect a his/hers social interactions
Through a collaborative partnership with Prevent Blindness America, Arizona Literacy & Learning Center has been able conduct screenings using child friendly tools to test children’s distance acuity and stereopsis.
If parents aren’t able to afford a visit to an eye care professional PBA is able to grant children gift certificates through their Sight for Students Gift Certificate Program. This program is dedicated to servicing children with no means to obtain a vision exam or glasses. PBA cannot issue a Sight for Students Gift Certificate to children with eye care coverage through private insurance, AHCCCS or Kids Care.
Why are vision screenings important?
Vision screenings are an accurate, cost-effective way to find vision problems in children. Vision changes should never be ignored. A vision screening does not replace a professional examination, but it can help identify those at risk for eye disorders.
Red Flags of Vision Problems
• hold objects very close
• attempts to brush away blurred vision
• blinks more than usual
• rubes eyes frequently
• squints when focusing on distant objects
• frowns excessively
• sensitivity to light
• red, swollen, or encrusted eyelids
• inflamed or watery eyes
http://www.preventblindness.org/vision_screening/childrens_vision_screening.html