{"id":1170,"date":"2020-04-22T09:44:24","date_gmt":"2020-04-22T09:44:24","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.optometrists.org\/wordpress\/?page_id=1170"},"modified":"2021-07-14T07:37:07","modified_gmt":"2021-07-14T07:37:07","slug":"glasses-for-children","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.optometrists.org\/childrens-vision\/guide-to-childrens-eye-exams\/glasses-for-children\/","title":{"rendered":"Choosing Glasses for Children"},"content":{"rendered":"

A guide to choosing the best eyeglasses for your child<\/b><\/h2>\n

Eyeglasses for children are now fun, colorful, and available in a wide variety of shapes and sizes. <\/em><\/p>\n

The latest children\u2019s frames are also durable enough to survive the rough and tumble play of today\u2019s child. Also, many well known global brands such as Nike, Adidas, X-Games, Pepe Jeans and Disney are now marketing child-friendly frames.<\/p>\n

With all of the appealing choices, walking into an optical store can be quite overwhelming! <\/em>Remember to keep this experience as fun and relaxed as possible!<\/em><\/p>\n

Here are some things to keep in mind when going to purchase eyeglasses for your child:<\/p>\n

1. Frame size\u00a0<\/b><\/h3>\n

Eyeglasses frames are now available for children of all ages, even for babies only a few months old. Finding a size that suits your child should be easy\u2014 but keep in mind that the optical prescription will determine how thick the lens will be. If your child has a high prescription, avoid large frames \u2014the larger the frame, the thicker the lens will be.<\/p>\n

Also, keep in mind that a larger lens means more higher-order aberrations near the edge of the lens, which may mean a higher risk of blurred or distorted peripheral vision.<\/p>\n

2. Choose an attractive design<\/b><\/h3>\n

Many kids will feel uneasy wearing glasses for the first time. Let your child show you what they like, while encouraging them to choose frames that have a modern, attractive design. Your child will gain confidence from your approval of their choice of frames, but will also appreciate your opinion.<\/p>\n

The goal is for your child to walk out of the store feeling confident and looking good!<\/em><\/p>\n

3. Metal or plastic?<\/b><\/h3>\n

Nowadays, metal and plastic frames are made similarly in regards to their durability, weight, and cost. However, the metal composition can vary between frames\u2014 so it is important to consult with the optical dispenser before deciding on the winning pair.<\/p>\n

Also, if your child has shown signs of an allergy to any substance (i.e. nickel) found in many eyeglass frames, don\u2019t worry\u2014 there are frames made of hypoallergenic materials available on the market as well.<\/p>\n

4. Appropriate bridge fit<\/b><\/h3>\n

Children\u2019s noses are not fully developed so they don\u2019t have a bridge to keep their glasses from sliding down. Finding the right frames for your child can be difficult in this regard.<\/p>\n

However, the good news is that metal frames are made with adjustable nose pads, and recently, even plastic frames are being made to fit small noses. With the range of designs available and the advice from an optical dispenser, the frame you choose will fit your child\u2019s nose perfectly.<\/p>\n

5. Temple style<\/b><\/h3>\n

If you are concerned about your child\u2019s glasses falling off their face, then you can purchase eyeglasses with cable temples. These temples wrap all the way around the back of the ear and will hold the glasses in place.<\/p>\n

Elastic straps that wrap around the back of the child\u2019s head can also be purchased to hold the glasses in place. Both of these options are recommended for younger children. Regular-sized and shaped temples are also available for older children.<\/p>\n

6. Spring hinges<\/b><\/h3>\n

Spring hinges allow the temples to flex outward, without causing any damage. Since kids aren’t always careful when they put on and take off their glasses, spring hinges will help to prevent frequent trips to the optical store to adjust or repair frames.<\/p>\n

They are also a great feature to have if your child frequently falls asleep with his glasses on. Spring hinges also are especially recommended for toddlers, who very often play with their new glasses.<\/p>\n

7. Lens material<\/b><\/h3>\n

Once you and your child agree on frames, the next consideration is the lens material. Children’s lenses should be made of polycarbonate or trivex, both high-index lenses, which are made to be more comfortable than regular plastic lenses. These lenses are lightweight, impact-resistant, and scratch resistant. They also offer UV protection to ensure that young eyes are protected against the sun’s UV rays.<\/p>\n

Avoid choosing glass lenses for children’s eyeglasses since they are heavy and can crack or break more easily.<\/p>\n

Contact an eye doctor<\/strong><\/a> near you to discuss glasses options for your child.<\/p>\n

SEE RELATED:<\/strong> Why Does My Child Need Bifocals?<\/a><\/p>\n\n\t

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Find an eye doctor for children near you<\/h3>\n\t\t\n\t
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