Child healthcare providers use health screenings to detect a wide range of diseases and conditions. The Children Health Fund reports twenty-nine states fail to require adequate health screenings for children entering school, with only Washington DC requiring an annual comprehensive exam. Seven specific health conditions have been found to significantly hinder a child’s ability to learn in school, known as Health Barriers to Learning (HBLs). The seven HBLs include vision problems, hearing difficulties, asthma, dental pain, hunger, lead exposure, and behavioral/ mental health issues. Screening for these conditions improves the chances of being identified and treated earlier, when it will make the greatest impact.

Even if your state doesn’t have policies in place to mandate these screening, school educators and health partners can still do it. Screening can be quick and easy, below are resources that offer tools, education and resources to screen children in school.