Ask Get Ready to Read! 
October/November 2007

Question: 
My child is just about to turn four, and I don't think that her vision or hearing has ever been checked.  When and why should I have my child's vision and hearing screened?

Answer: 
Untreated vision and hearing problems can interfere with your child's ability to learn.  A young child's vision and hearing should be screened by a qualified professional once a year. This is usually done at a child's school or day care center or at the annual well-child visit with a healthcare provider. If you don't think that your child's vision and hearing have been checked, ask your child's teacher, care provider or pediatrician.  For more information, visit these Web sites on hearing and vision.