What is KidSight? KidSight is a free vision-screening program conducted by Lions Club volunteers throughout Colorado at preschools and early childhood centers. The program is designed to identify vision problems in children ages three through six. Over the years, Lions have screened thousands of kids and helped hundreds to see better.
Why Vision Screening? The first few years of a child's life are critical for developing good vision. Problems are not always evident as children often compensate so well that parents, teachers, and pediatricians are unaware of them. Young children should have their vision checked, as many problems can be effectively treated while young. When a child is old enough to be in primary grades, many common vision-robbing conditions can no longer be treated. Amblyopia or lazy eye is, perhaps, the easiest to correct if caught early, and it is one of the vision problems checked in the KidSight screening program. Other problems that are checked:
- Astigmatism - corneal irregularities
- Corneal reflexes - symmetric eye alignment
- Myopia - nearsightedness
- Hyperopia - farsightedness
- Anisometropia - refraction of both eyes
- Anisocoria - pupil size comparison
- Amblyopia – lazy eye
How is Vision Screening Done? It is as simple as having your child's picture taken. Denver Lions use a PlusOptix vision screening device that is 85-90% accurate in detecting vision problems. It takes only minutes, and requires no preparation or medication and is totally painless.
How do I use the PlusOptix? The machine is easy to use. One or two hands-on sessions usually provide the experience needed to facilitate skill development.
How are sessions scheduled? The KidSight Chairperson contacts the schools and daycare centers, planning the date, time, and information about the location and students. All this information is entered into the Denver Lions calendar on the website.
How do I volunteer for a session? Sessions are planned for many weeks in advance and listed on the denverlions.org website calendar. Each scheduled session includes the school's name, address, date, time, contact information, and number of kids to be screened. Should you be available to do the screening, contact Lion Artie at 720.876.7480 denverlionssight@gmail.com
What is the volunteer time commitment? Screening sessions are held Monday through Friday when the school is in session. Usually, sessions begin at 8:30 and may go until noon, depending on class size. If the class size is large, we may use two screeners. Hopefully, but not required, a screener will do two or more sessions a month.
What are the benefits of being a screener? Unlike other service activities, KidSight is up close and personal. You do interact with the children, albeit for a short time. When you screen a kid who is being referred to an eye doctor, you know you have made a difference in that kid's life! These kids are so cute, very curious, and fun to be around.