Buying Eyeglasses for Children

Many parents overlook the possibility their children may need corrective lenses. It isn't uncommon however, for vision problems in children to go undetected. Part of this has to do with children's inability to realize something is wrong with their eyesight. They may assume seeing things blurry is simply the norm, since they aren't used to anything different.

Paying Attention To Children's Eye Health
Parents sometimes overlook children's eyesight as a cause for concern. Yet each year thousands of children are diagnosed with eye problems requiring corrective lenses.

Not sure if your child may need glasses? Any of the following signs and symptoms may suggest a visit to the ophthalmologist is in order:

• Your child squints frequently to see things clearly.
• Your child moves materials frequently when reading or holds objects very closely to inspect.
• Your child rubs their eyes regularly or reports eye irritation.
• You notice redness or tearing in your child's eyes.
• You have a family history of eye problems.

When buying eyeglasses for your children, you want to investigate fun and hip designs but also popular trends for children. What is cool and interesting for adults after all, isn't necessarily what is cool and interesting for children.

Many children prefer frames molded after popular cartoon characters. They may prefer plastic to metal frames. It is important you keep in mind your child's personality as well as what is practical and useful when buying eyeglasses for your children.

Offering Children a Choice In Eye Wear
While many children prefer buying eyeglasses modeled after their favorite celebrity or cartoon character, sill others prefer glasses modeled after mom or dad or even brother or sister. Some children will prefer titanium frames while others prefer stylish and modernly colored plastic ones.

Fortunately children's frames come in as much variety as those offered parents. Usually you can get children many of the same styles you might select for yourself. There are some features of children's eyewear however, you may not consider including glow-in-the-dark accents or characters. Popular carton characters including SpongeBob Square Pants, Dora the Explorer and even glasses modeled after Harry Potter.

Helping Your Child Select Suitable Frames
No matter what you decide on, it is important you allow your child to take part in the selection process. Children are sometimes reserved or hesitant to wear glasses. This is particularly the case for first time wearers. They may fear the teasing that inevitably ensues from other children.

Fortunately you can help calm their fears by allowing them the opportunity to select the frames they wear. While you might encourage your child to buy frames that are practical and durable, you should also encourage your child to have fun during the selection process.

There are various styles children and teens can select from nowadays. Things you should look for as a parent include durability and safety. When it comes to children's lenses, polycarbonate lenses are often a good choice particularly for sports eyewear, however they may not provide enough protection if your child is involved in vigorous activities.

In some cases sports goggles may be more practical to help protect your child's eyes from injury.

Do I Need A Warranty?
Children's glasses are bound to get scratched, dropped, stepped on and lost. Because of this you should consider buying a warranty. When looking for a warranty, consider one that will replace scratched lenses, lost glasses or more. However, if the cost of the warranty is more than buying new glasses, you might forgo it altogether.

Some parents simply opt for a "back up" pair of glasses instead of a warranty. This is a good idea if your child's prescription is very strong and they have a hard time seeing without their glasses. In this case, doing without their glasses for a day or two may not be a reasonable alternative, so it is best you have a back up pair in the event your child loses or breaks their glasses beyond repair.

Related Articles:

• Top Tips and Tricks for Buying Children's Eyewear
• Children Eye Exam - Learn the whats and whens of eye exams for children.
• A Comprehensive Eye Exam: an Essential School Supply
• Baby's Visual Development - How to Spot Problems Early
• Childrens Eye Care - Proper Eye Care For Children
• Play Outdoors and Lower Your Risk of Nearsightedness
• Childrens Sunglasses - Important information for parents
• Computer Vision Syndrome: Are Your Children At Risk?

Learn more about choosing eyeglasses for children on our forums!

Bookmark This Page

Custom Search