Children's Vision Foundation (CVF)

Mission Statement

The Children's Vision Foundation identifies children with vision problems that adversely affect a child's ability to succeed in school; in particular, problems that compromise a child's ability to learn effectively. This is accomplished through extensive vision screening in schools and in the wider community and support for children and their families in accessing care when indicated. CVF seeks to raise public awareness of vision disorders through public education on their effects and treatments.

Our Goals

To conduct vision screenings that assess every child's visual abilities.

To provide families and school staff with information that will facilitate appropriate vision referrals when indicated to obtain a comprehensive eye exam by an eye care professional.

To educate communities about vision problems that affect learning.

To organize and train community volunteers to conduct screenings.


Signs of Vision Problems

Some vision-related problems, such as eye strain or blurred vision, can usually be attributed directly to a vision dysfunction.  Others, such as poor attention in class, clumsiness, or reduced productivity, may not immediately be recognized as a sign of a vision problem.

Following is a list of common signs that may indicate the need for a comprehensive vision exam.

Physical Signs

  • Frequent headaches or eye strain
  • Blurring of distance or near vision, particularly after reading or other close work
  • Avoidance of close work or other visually demanding tasks
  • Poor judgment of depth
  • Turning of an eye in or out, up or down
  • Tendency to cover or close one eye, or favor the vision in one eye
  • Double vision
  • Poor hand-eye coordination
  • Difficulty following a moving target
  • Dizziness or motion sickness

Performance Problems

  • Poor reading comprehension
  • Difficulty copying from one place to another
  • Loss of place, repetition, and/or omission of words while reading
  • Difficulty changing focus from distance to near and back
  • Poor posture when reading or writing
  • Poor handwriting
  • Can respond orally but can't get the same information down on paper
  • Letter and word reversals
  • Difficulty judging sizes and shapes

If you or a member of your family experiences any of these signs, a comprehensive vision exam may uncover undetected vision problems.