Hearing and Vision Services
Hearing & Vision Concerns
An undiagnosed hearing or vision problem may impact your child's ability to develop and learn. And, because of the specialized equipment and trained technicians of the Department of Public Health, even infants can be screened for hearing and vision impairments!
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 the 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 Department of Public Health location of your choice to schedule a free screening. The earlier a problem is identified, the sooner it may be corrected and permanent damage may be prevented!
Kindergarten Entrance Clinics
Children should be screened for both hearing and vision at least once between the age of 3 and 5 before they may enter kindergarten. The screening is required by the Michigan Public Health Code. Preschool hearing and vision clinics are provided at no cost and are available by appointment by calling (616) 396-5266.
School Screenings
Hearing and vision screenings are one of the "silent" functions of your Department of Public Health. Unless your child has been referred for follow-up, you may not even realize the screenings we are providing at your child's school. In the school settings, hearing is screened during Kindergarten, 2nd grade, and 4th grade. Vision is screened in 1st grade, 3rd grade, 5th grade, 7th grade, and 9th grade in conjunction with driver's education. If your child is home schooled, screenings are available by calling the Ottawa County Department of Public Health nearest you. There is no need to wait until the screening year if you have a concern about your child's hearing or vision. Please call us right away. The earlier a problem is identified, the sooner it may be corrected and permanent damage may be prevented!
