Emma is proud of her glasses — and it’s not just because they’re her favorite color, purple, or because they remind her of her teacher, Miss K. Since she got them, they’ve made a remarkable difference in her life.

The first five years of a child’s life are full of discovery. Children learn through all their senses — tasting, touching, smelling, seeing, and listening. Problems with any of these senses can create serious barriers to learning and school readiness.

At 18 months, Emma was falling behind her peers. Instead of using words to communicate, she would point to what she wanted, then cry and scream when she didn’t get it. At times, she would shut down completely — refusing to participate in activities, interact with others, or even walk.

Thanks to her enrollment at The Rock at Stony Point, a Futures First Head Start site, Emma received a routine vision screening — a standard part of every Head Start child’s care. When the screening indicated a possible issue, Futures First health coordinator recommended a full vision exam and guided Emma’s family on next steps.

The result? Purple glasses — and a whole new world for Emma.

“She’s a totally different person than she was a few months ago. Once she got her glasses, her whole demeanor changed. She walks everywhere, she’s smiling, she’s staying on track. She has really become a leader, and we’re seeing her potential,” said Lee Howell, owner of The Rock at Stony Point.

Vision problems like Emma’s are more common than many realize. A study in Pediatrics (2011) found that up to 1 in 20 preschool-age children in the U.S. has a vision problem. Before partnering with Futures First, Howell isn’t sure Emma’s needs would have been identified.

Futures First’s commitment to early screening is making a difference for more children, too. Futures First’s health coordinator recently identified two more children with hearing and vision impairments. After follow-up care, both are showing similar improvements.

By identifying and addressing challenges early, Futures First ensure that every child has the tools to learn, grow, and thrive — setting them on the path to success in school and beyond.