Because of inadequate screening, Colorado supports just 25% to 50% of the families with very young children who are visually impaired or have vision concerns.1
1 Children receiving early intervention vision services, benchmark study with Arizona, New Mexico, Utah. Conducted by A Shared Vision, November 2019

Importance of Vision Screening

“Visual Screening Guidelines: Children Birth Through Five Years,” Colorado Department of Education, January 2005
One out of five children may have some type of vision concern
Vision problems have a major impact on the global development of a young child, especially in the first years of life
Early intervention minimizes the effects of vision loss on a child’s development
Vision screening may identify the need for medical attention
Vision screening is intended to answer one simple question: "Is there a vision concern that requires further examination?"

History of Colorado Vision Screening and Approach During Pandemic

This 85-minute briefing provides a brief history of Colorado's vision screening and the state's response to to vision screening for children birth to age five during the COVID-19 pandemic. Speakers include Dr. Tanni Anthony (Colorado Department of Education), Paula Landry (EI-TVI and co-founder of A Shared Vision) and Steven Lindauer (Executive Director and co-found of A Shared Vision). Click HERE to view.
We can assess the health and well-being of a very young child’s vision by paying attention to the appearance of eyes, behaviors and caregiver’s concerns
"Vision Screening Parent Questionnaire for Children Ages Birth through Five Years," Colorado Department of Education, 2020

ABC's of Vision Screening

Appearance
Appearance of the eyes and eyelids may identify atypical situations that warrant a referral - and in some cases an URGENT referral
Behaviors
Behaviors of how your child uses their vision in daily tasks may indicate a brain-based or neurological concern such as Cerebral Visual Impairment
Concerns
Concerns about a child's vision should always be addressed by a qualified professional