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2020:
Make this The Year of Vision!
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PREVENT BLINDNESS CHILDREN'S
VISION SCREENING CERTIFICATION COURSE FOR MASSACHUSETTS
The Prevent Blindness Children’s Vision Screening Certification course is now available online and in Massachusetts-specific format. Course participants learn Massachusetts vision regulations, current evidence-based vision screening tools and best practice procedures when providing screening for children aged 3 years and older.
The course, adapted from the National Center for Children's Vision and Eye Health certification, is suitable for professionals in home visiting, early care and education programs, preschool, private school, childcare, public health, and primary healthcare settings, and community volunteers interested to become a children's vision screener. The course provides a 3-year nationally-recognized certification. Click below for more information about the training, or to enroll.
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Experiencing life through blurred vision is a challenge for anyone. A child with an undiagnosed or untreated vision disorder often does not know it, and relies on us, the caring adults and professionals around them, to first recognize, and then act to turn this imminently treatable issue into a positive outcome - the benefit and use of the child's optimal vision.
Since 2009, Children's Vision Massachusetts (CVMA) coalition has raised awareness and supported decision-makers, facilitated and provided expertise and professionals' training, assisted in conducting vision research with published findings in peer-reviewed journals, advocated for improved access to vision care through in-person advocacy at the State House, and along with legislative champions and many other supporters attained a convening of the Special Commission on Childhood Vision and Eye Health, whose official recommendations we await.
Through newsletter articles, public service announcements, social media, website, patient support programs, and free resources in many languages, CVMA has reached public health professionals, educators, early education and care providers, parents and caregivers.
Our coalition members give their time and expertise voluntarily. During this holiday giving season we hope you will consider a donation to CVMA as we continue our work towards a systematic approach to vision care to support every child in Massachusetts, and beyond.
Thank you.
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Massachusetts Commission for the Blind Virtual Open House
In Recognition of International Day of People with Disabilities
“Resilience During the 2020 Pandemic”
Thursday, December 3, 2020
10 am – 1 pm ET
New Resources for Vision Screening and Parent Education Webinar
Wednesday, December 2, 2020
2:30 – 3:30 pm ET/ 1:30 – 2:30 pm CT
MCHB Seeks Public Input
The Maternal Child Health Bureau (MCHB) seeks public comments and suggestions to develop a vision for the future of maternal and child health in the United States. Feedback is requested to inform the MCHB Strategic Plan. Please review the request for information and share your comments
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When I was a child (a long time ago) I had Amblyopia. My condition was not found by a vision screening. My condition was obvious. You could easily see my crossed eye.
Knowing what I know now about vision and the importance of good vision, I feel lucky to have had a pronounced version of Amblyopia. Why you might ask? My condition was readily identifiable, and my parents sought the treatment needed when I was 3 years old. I participated in weekly vision training sessions and wore glasses until I was 12 years old.
Consequently, my vision has been excellent since then, without the need for glasses. But I tell you this story for a reason.
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WE WISH YOU A SAFE AND JOYFUL HOLIDAY SEASON!
- TIPS FOR CHOOSING TOYS
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The right toy can help build a child's imagination and coordination, but the wrong toy can do more harm than good. While many toy makers follow mandatory and voluntary safety guidelines for their products, some do not. The challenge is to find toys your child will love and ones you know are safe.
Below are some helpful tips in choosing toys this season:
- Follow suggested age levels. Ask yourself if the toy is right for your child’s ability and age.
- Inspect toys for solidness. Your child’s toys should be durable with no sharp edges or points. The toys should also withstand impact.
- Avoid toys that shoot or include parts that fly off.
- Look for the letters “ASTM.” The product meets the national safety standards set by the American Society for Testing and Materials.
If you are thinking of buying a digital device as a holiday gift, learn here about blue light.
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In our October newsletter articles, we inadvertently omitted these CVMA coalition members' full contributions:
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Reach out and Read: read the full article here
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We thank coalition member, Janet Arndt, BA, Ed.M., Ed.D., Director of the Graduate Program in Education, Gordon College, for facilitating CVMA October presentation "Eyes and Education" to reading specialists and graduate students of early education.
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To support the work of Children's Vision Massachusetts, please consider making a DONATION
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