The Preschool Vision Screening Program provides early detection of vision
problems in preschool children (ages 3-5 years old) within the greater
Los Angeles area. The importance of preschool vision screening for
preschool children cannot be overstated. The reality, however, is
that it is often overlooked. Statistics tell us that 80% of all
the information received by the brain comes in through our eyes.
Thus, if a child is not seeing properly, that child’s capacity
to learn can be impaired. Undiagnosed early childhood vision problems
can result in developmental problems, learning disabilities and
potential irreparable damage to the visual system. The other reality
is that children in this young age group do not realize they are
not seeing properly and, consequently, cannot alert an adult to
the problem. It is estimated that vision problems affect 1 in 20
preschoolers.
The Jules Stein Eye Institute Preschool Vision Screening Program screens
children for simple refractive errors and eye muscle problems using
a variety of tests designed specifically for preschoolers. The screenings
utilize the E chart, the Lea Symbol chart, and a specially
designed camera that is used with pre-verbal children to scan for
refractive and eye muscle problems. Though only eye care professionals
can diagnose and treat a vision problem, these screenings are an
essential tool for identifying children in need of a full eye examination.
