Buying Glasses for Kids

Finding just the right pair of kid’s eyeglasses can be a daunting task, the options are seemingly endless. Because there are so many choices of children’s glasses, the process of narrowing down the selection gets confusing. How do you figure out which style your kid will agree to wear? Are glasses for kids extra durable? Are toddler glasses available in the right size?

Why glasses for kids are prescribed

Children who are prescribed eyeglasses are typically either nearsighted or farsighted. They may need to wear kid’s glasses either full or part time, depending on the necessary degree of vision correction. Some children need to wear them all of the time, others just need to view the chalkboard or to complete schoolwork.

Occasionally an eye doctor will suggest appropriate kid’s glasses frames. However, is it most commonly a decision made between the parent, child, and person fitting the glasses.

How to choose kid’s glasses frames

When shopping for children’s glasses, consider the following items:

Lens type:The eyeglass prescription is the most important factor when choosing frames. Consult with one of our opticians before you shop. A strong prescription usually means a thick lens. The smallest possible frames are the best option to reduce the final thickness of the lens.

Attractive style: Glasses for kids should always be attractive and fashionable. Most kids are thrilled about having to wear eyeglasses but some may get teased. Stay away from frames that are unflattering, inappropriate or too expensive. You don’t want your child to object to wearing the glasses. Kids tend to like tinted-photochromic lenses the darken when they go outside.

Frame material:Kids glasses frames are available in plastic or metal. The styles tend to mimic unisex frames designed for adults because kids like to look grown-up. Plastic used to be considered the best option for children because it was less likely to break or bend. It is also cheaper and more lightweight. Today, metal frames offer the same durability and features. Hypoallergenic materials are available for children with sensitivity or allergies to certain nickel-containing frame alloys.

Proper bridge fit:It is important that children’s glasses fit correctly. There shouldn’t be any gaps between the frame bridge and the bridge of the nose. If so, the glasses will slide out of place. When this happens kids tend to peer over lenses, rather than move the glasses where they should be. An optician can make sure the frame fits your child properly.

Temple Style: Temple styles completely prevent glasses from sliding or falling off a kid’s face. These frames wrap snugly all the way around the of the child’s ear. These are good toddler glasses or for kids who need to wear eye correction all day.

Lens material:Lenses for children should be made of impact-resistant Trivex or polycarbonate. These materials are the safest materials available They are also significantly lighter and more comfortable to wear than traditional plastic kid’s lenses. Trivex and polycarbonate also offer UV protection and scratchresistance.