Eye exams are a routine part of a child's annual check-up. Sometimes, the doctor (or even the school nurse or teacher) might notice that your child is struggling to see.
Frequent headaches and squinting are also common warning signs that your child needs glasses.
If you recently found out that your child needs prescription glasses, you may be wondering how to choose glasses that fit their face and personality.
Here we'll cover how to choose the best eyeglasses for kids to boost their confidence and improve their vision.
1. Choose an Attractive Style
Kids are surprisingly aware and concerned with their appearance. This is especially true for school-age children with friends and a certain sense of style.
Your child may already be struggling with the fact that they need glasses in the first place. Help them get comfortable with the idea by choosing a style that fits their personality.
If they like their glasses, they'll actually want to wear them, improving their vision and helping them excel both in and out of the classroom.
2. Let Them Be Involved
Let your child choose their own eyeglass frames. After all, they're the ones who have to wear them every day.
Give them a few affordable options that are safe and comfortable. Brands like Kids Bright Eyes and Dilli Dali have fun and funky colors and designs for younger kids.
Older children may want a more subtle look from Ray Ban's junior line.
Athletes will love Nike's line of children's glasses. Depending on where you live, you may also want to consider polarized eyeglasses.
Don't be surprised if your child chooses a pair that resembles a family member or friend. Many children's frames resemble unisex adult frames for this very reason.
3. Consider the Prescription
When figuring out how to choose glasses for your child, you need to consider the prescription and thickness of the lens.
Ask your child's optician what type of lens your child needs and which style frame would be best. The stronger the prescription, the thicker the lens.
If your child already needs a thick lens, avoid large frames -- these will only make the glass bigger and more uncomfortable. Ask the doctor for the smallest possible lens for your child's needs.
This will help reduce the risk of blurriness or obstructed peripheral vision. It might also open up more fun and modern eyeglass frame options.
4. Material Matters
There are two materials to consider when choosing the best glasses for your child -- the frame and lens material.
Eyeglass Frame Material
Eyeglass frames are usually made of either plastic or metal.
Plastic seems like the obvious choice -- it's more durable, lighter, and less expensive. In recent years, designers have been creating metal frames that include many of these same features.
Either material is suitable for children of all ages so let them decide which look they prefer.
Eyeglass Lens Material
The two most popular lens materials for kid's glasses are Trivex and polycarbonate. Both of these materials are impact- and scratch-resistant, making them perfect for active kids!
Both Trivex and polycarbonate are also lighter than plastic, making them more comfortable for daily wear. These materials add another level of safety with protection from harmful UV rays.
While Trivex lenses are slightly more expensive, they're both affordable options and worth the investment.
5. Check the Bridge Fit
One thing many parents forget to consider is the bridge fit of your child's glasses. The bridge is the part that sits on the bridge of your child's nose.
If your child is younger, the bridge of their nose may not be fully developed, making it difficult for plastic frames to stay in place. Metal frames are usually made with adjustable nose pads, allowing for a more personalized fit.
These glasses can also grow with your child -- as long as their prescription and vision needs don't change.
Most children's plastic frames are designed with smaller bridges to accommodate children's noses. If a gap still remains, the weight of the glasses will pull them off your child's face.
Check with an optician to guarantee the right fit.
6. Temple Style
The temple, or arm, of the eyeglasses, is another area that needs to fit properly on your child. If not, they'll become loose, fall off, and possibly break.
Most designs address this by including what's called a cable temple -- these wrap about the back of your child's ear, keeping them securely in place.
Cable temples are popular on metal-framed eyeglasses and are especially important for toddlers or very young, active children. Another option is an elastic strap that wraps around the child's head.
You may also want glasses that have temples with spring hinges. These flex outward and away from the frames to prevent breakage.
Spring hinges reduce the need for repairs and adjustments. They also protect the glasses during rough play or if your child accidentally falls asleep while wearing them.
7. Activity Level
Some children are more active than others. You know your kid best. Choose eyeglasses that fit their activity level.
High-energy kids that play a lot of sports and are always on the go will need durable eyeglasses that fit their faces perfectly. Converse, Nike, and Sketcher are popular children's brands.
Older athletes will also benefit from durable, sporty frames. Sports goggles are another popular choice for wear during contact sports.
8. Have an Extra Pair Handy
Let's face it -- some adults have a hard time keeping track of their glasses if they don't wear them for everyday use. It's always a good idea to have an extra set of kids' eyeglasses handy.
Whether your child loses them, damages them, or leaves them at school or a friend's house, this second pair will be a lifesaver!
This is especially important if your child requires a strong prescription and has difficulty seeing without their glasses. One pair is never enough!
How to Choose Glasses for Your Child That They'll Actually Wear!
When a child finds out they need glasses, it can sometimes be a difficult adjustment. But knowing how to choose glasses that your child will love is a good first step in helping correct their vision.
Let your children get involved by choosing a style or brand they like. Opt for durable materials like metal frames and Trivex lenses for added safety and protection.
Browse our complete line of children's glasses and sunglasses. Check out our sales page for added deals for the whole family.
