District Health Department #10 state-trained technicians provide FREE hearing and vision screening services to preschool and school age children at your child’s school. Free Screenings can also be completed at guardian /teacher request and for any child that is home schooled or enrolled into virtual schooling. Hearing tests are completed in Preschool, Kindergarten, 2nd, and 4th grade. Vision screenings are completed in Preschool, 1st, 3rd, 5th, 7th, and 9th grade.
Kindergarten Entrance Clinics
Children must be screened for both hearing and vision at least once between the ages of 3 and 5, before they may enter kindergarten. It is best practice to screen vision 6 months prior to kindergarten entry. The screening is required by the Michigan Public Health Code. An undiagnosed hearing or vision problem can prevent your child from learning. Preschool hearing and vision clinics are provided at no cost and are available by appointment. Please call (888) 217-3904 (press 2).
School Screenings
In the school setting, hearing is screened during kindergarten, 2nd and 4th grade. Vision is screened in 1st, 3rd, 5th, 7th and 9th grade or in conjunction with driver’s education. If your child is home schooled, screenings are available by calling DHD#10 for an appointment at (888) 217-3904 (press 2).
Hearing and Vision Concerns
Children that fail an initial screening and re-screen a referral is made for an ophthalmologist/ optometrist and/or Audiologist for evaluation. Undiagnosed hearing and vision problems may impact your child’s ability to develop and learn. Your child may be having hearing problems if he/she:
- Has a history of ear infections or drainage
- Wants music, video games, or TV loud
- Misunderstands or often asks to have things repeated
Your child may be having vision problems if he/she:
- Squints or tilts head to see
- Has an eye that crosses or wanders when the child is ill or tired
- Holds objects close to the eyes
If your child is experiencing any of these symptoms, contact the health department nearest you. There is no need to wait until the screening year if you have a concern about your child’s hearing or vision. The earlier a problem is identified, the sooner it may be corrected, and permanent damage prevented.
Schedule a Screening
Home Schooled, Virtually Enrolled or Summer Clinics
- Manistee, Mecosta, & Newaygo: (231) 355-7550
- Oceana, Lake, & Mason: (231) 780-7991
- Crawford, Kalkaska, Missaukee, & Wexford: (231) 902-8522
Preschool & School Aged Children
- Please conact your school secretary to find out when your school is scheduled.