Free Vision Screening for Young Children

The Ferguson-Florissant School District’s Parents as Teachers program and the Missouri Lion’s Club are joining together to offer a free comprehensive vision screening for young children, ages one to kindergarten entry who live in the district.  Screenings will be provided on a first come first serve basis between 6:30 – 7:30 p.m., Tuesday, September 17, 2013, at the James J. Egan Center, Rooms A & B, #1 James J. Egan Drive in Florissant.

A preschool comprehensive vision screening looks for Amblyopia. Amblyopia is a childhood vision disorder that occurs when the brain receives unequal or abnormal visual input from the eyes. It occurs when the optical powers of the eyes are different; where one or both of the eyes are misaligned, or when a disease blocks light from being focused on the retina.   If untreated, amblyopia can lead to impaired academic performance, low self-esteem, and restricted social development in children.  Amblyopia is treatable if addressed in the early years of a child’s life.

While you are waiting for the vision screening or after your child has been screened stay for Story Time Adventure, 6:30 – 7:30 p.m.  at the same location.

Parents and children ages 12 months to age 5 will hear stories and enjoy story related activities. Parents will assist their children in discovering the wonder of books and in developing the necessary skills to prepare their child for reading on their own.

These free parent/child activities are one component of the Parents as Teachers program.   You may attend either one separately or both events.

You do not have to be participating in the Parents as Teachers program to attend these free events.  Information on free preschool for children who live in the Ferguson-Florissant School District will be available.  For more information call 314-506-9066.

The Parents as Teachers program also offers personal visits provided by certified parent educators. During visits parents learn about age appropriate child development information and activities for their child. Once a year children are given a developmental screening.  If needed, parent educators provide assistance in locating community resources. Parent educators also assist expectant parents with prenatal information and what to expect as a first time parent.

 

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