Things to Look For in Prescription Glasses for Kids

Reasons for Glasses

• Some children need glasses simply to improve their vision, but a doctor also recommends glasses if a youngster's eyes do not focus cooperatively. One eye may move independently, or perhaps both cross. In either case, glasses help develop eye coordination. If a child has a "lazy eye" that is significantly weaker than the other, glasses improve the vision in the deficient eye.

Fit

• To ensure proper eye correction and increase comfort, the fit of glasses is crucial for children. For a correct fit, begin with a frame that centers the eye. The frame size may depend upon the prescription; thick lenses cause visual distortion if the frames are too big. They should not be large enough to touch the cheeks or so small they brush the eyelashes. Additionally, some frames have cushioned comfort-cables on the ear pieces. You may be tempted to select a slightly oversized frame that can be worn for years. However, well-fitting frames are comfortable, and your child will be more inclined to wear the glasses. Too-large frames are also at risk of falling off during a typical active day.

Material

• Frames manufactured specifically for kids have features that increase the glasses' life span. Some frames have spring hinges at the temples, making the glasses more flexible when handled. Look for frames that are made of strong and durable materials. Selection varies by store, so your optician can advise you based on your child's age and activities. Sturdy children's frames are now available in both plastic and metal. For kids' glasses, choose polycarbonate lenses. They are shatterproof, lightweight and scratch-resistant. Glass and plastic lenses are more likely to crack or break when worn by kids.

Appearance

• Adjusting to wearing glasses can be difficult for anyone, but some children find it especially challenging. Kids may not fully appreciate the necessity for the glasses and therefore, may approach them with great reluctance. New glasses can feel strange on children's faces, and the change in eyesight may be disconcerting. Also, kids may be afraid of being teased. To make the transition as easy as possible, the glasses must do more than fit well, meet the doctor's goals and be strong and safe. Your child must like the appearance of the glasses. That may mean finding ones that are a favorite color or similar to those worn by a beloved character or celebrity. The chances of your child wearing glasses increases dramatically if the frames are well-liked.