Be There: Checking your child’s vision - WTVM.com-Columbus, GA News Weather & Sports

Be There: Checking your child’s vision

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(WTVM) -

A large part of learning is done visually: reading, spelling, writing and, in many schools, using computers.

Each involves the eyes, but what happens when your child has problems seeing? It can definitely affect their learning.

Eye screenings can determine if a student has trouble seeing. Sometimes it's problems with their vision that keeps them from performing at their full potential.

MCSD lead nurse Darlene Shirley says problems are typically noticed by the teacher, then a referral is written to the testing center for a screening with the parent's permission.

"If the child does fail the initial screening, which is a screening not a comprehensive eye exam, then they are notified so they can make an appointment with their eye doctor for a comprehensive eye exam with their vision," Shirley said.  

Shirley said the district used to do mass vision screenings but now they're done on a case-by-case basis and parents are notified.

Here are some signs that your child may have trouble seeing: headaches, squinting, holding a book close to their face, not wanting to read, losing their place while reading, and rubbing eyes repeatedly.

Shirley said if you find out your child needs glasses but have no insurance, help may be available. Contact the nurse at your child's school.

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