Iowa KidSight: Vision screenings for children

A vision screening can identify issues when a child cannot recognize or describe a problem. Iowa KidSight, a vision-screening program of the Lions Clubs of Iowa and the Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences at Stead Family Children’s Hospital, offers free vision screenings for children 6 months old through kindergarten.

Vision screenings are performed by Lions Club volunteers in communities throughout Iowa by taking a photo of a child’s eyes with a specialized camera. After screenings are complete, the results are interpreted by vision specialists at Stead Family Children’s Hospital. If a potential vision problem is detected, parents will receive a referral letter and a list of local ophthalmologists and optometrists to contact for further eye care.

Early detection and treatment of a vision problem can prevent amblyopia (lazy eye). It can also make a difference in a child’s ability to learn and excel.