How to Get Your Kid’s Glasses

Recognizing the Signs That Your Child May Need Glasses

The first step in getting your child the glasses they need is recognizing that there may be an issue with their vision. Children, especially young ones, may not be able to articulate that they are having trouble seeing. As a parent, it’s important to be observant and look for signs that might indicate a vision problem:

1. Squinting

If your child frequently squints, it might be an attempt to see more clearly. Squinting reduces the amount of light entering the eye, which can temporarily improve focus for those who are nearsighted or farsighted.

2. Sitting Too Close to Screens

Children who sit very close to the TV or hold books close to their face might be doing so because they can’t see well from a distance.

3. Frequent Headaches

Unexplained headaches, especially after reading or doing other close-up tasks, can be a sign of eye strain, which may indicate a need for glasses.

4. Rubbing Eyes

While rubbing eyes can sometimes indicate tiredness, frequent rubbing could also be a sign of eye strain or discomfort due to vision problems.

5. Difficulty in School

If your child is struggling in school, particularly with reading, it could be due to an undiagnosed vision issue. Teachers may notice that your child is having trouble seeing the board or reading their materials.

6. Tilting the Head

Tilting the head to one side may be a sign that your child has a vision issue like astigmatism, where the eyes have an uneven curvature and tilting helps them see more clearly.

Scheduling an Eye Exam

If you suspect your child may have vision issues, the next step is to schedule an eye exam with an optometrist or pediatric ophthalmologist. Regular eye exams are essential, as they can detect vision problems early and ensure your child’s eyes are healthy.

1. When to Have the First Eye Exam

The American Optometric Association recommends that children have their first comprehensive eye exam at 6 months of age, another at 3 years old, and then before they start school. After that, an eye exam should be done every one to two years, unless there are specific concerns.

2. What to Expect During the Exam

During a pediatric eye exam, the doctor will check for a range of issues, including nearsightedness, farsightedness, astigmatism, and eye coordination problems. The exam will typically involve:

• Visual Acuity Test: This checks how clearly your child can see at different distances.
• Eye Alignment Test: This evaluates how well the eyes work together.
• Eye Health Exam: The doctor will examine the overall health of the eyes, including the retina and optic nerve.

The eye doctor will also ask about your child’s medical history, any vision issues they may be experiencing, and their daily habits to get a full picture of their eye health.

Understanding the Prescription

After the exam, if your child needs glasses, the optometrist will provide a prescription. Understanding what the numbers on the prescription mean can help you choose the right lenses.

1. Sphere (SPH)

The SPH number indicates the strength of the lens your child needs. A negative number means they are nearsighted, while a positive number means they are farsighted.

2. Cylinder (CYL)

The CYL number indicates whether your child has astigmatism, a condition where the eye is not perfectly round. This number corrects for the uneven curvature of the eye.

3. Axis

The axis number accompanies the CYL and indicates the orientation of the astigmatism correction.

4. Pupillary Distance (PD)

PD is the distance between the centers of the pupils in each eye. This measurement ensures that the lenses are properly aligned with your child’s eyes.

Choosing the Right Frames

Once you have the prescription, it’s time to choose frames. The right frames will not only help your child see better but also need to be comfortable and durable.

1. Consider Your Child’s Face Shape

Choosing frames that complement your child’s face shape can improve both comfort and appearance:

• Round Faces: Rectangular frames can add balance to round faces.
• Square Faces: Oval or round frames can soften angular features.
• Oval Faces: Most frame shapes work well with oval faces, allowing for more flexibility in choosing styles.

2. Material Matters

Children’s frames should be made from durable, lightweight materials. Common materials include:

• Plastic: Lightweight and available in a variety of colors. Ideal for young children who may not handle their glasses carefully.
• Metal: Durable and adjustable. Good for older children who are more responsible with their glasses.
• Flexible Materials: Some frames are made from materials that can bend without breaking, making them ideal for active children.

3. Comfort and Fit

Ensure that the frames fit well and are comfortable for your child to wear throughout the day:

• Bridge Fit: The bridge of the glasses should fit snugly on the nose without pinching.
• Temple Fit: The arms of the glasses should fit comfortably around the ears without digging in.
• Lens Size: Lenses should be large enough to provide a wide field of vision without being too heavy.

4. Style and Color

Involving your child in choosing the style and color of their glasses can make them more excited about wearing them. Let them choose frames that reflect their personality, whether they prefer bright, bold colors or something more subtle.

Selecting the Right Lenses

Choosing the right lenses is just as important as selecting the frames. The lenses should match your child’s prescription and lifestyle.

1. Lens Materials

There are several lens materials to choose from, each with its own benefits:

• Polycarbonate Lenses: Lightweight and impact-resistant, making them ideal for active children. They also offer UV protection.
• Trivex Lenses: Similar to polycarbonate but with better optical clarity.
• High-Index Lenses: Thinner and lighter than standard lenses, suitable for stronger prescriptions.

2. Lens Coatings

Adding coatings to the lenses can enhance their performance and durability:

• Anti-Scratch Coating: Protects lenses from scratches, extending their lifespan.
• Anti-Reflective Coating: Reduces glare and reflections, improving vision and comfort.
• UV Protection: Essential for protecting your child’s eyes from harmful ultraviolet rays.

3. Blue Light Protection

With increased screen time, blue light protection has become important for children’s lenses. Blue light blocking lenses can reduce eye strain caused by prolonged use of digital devices like tablets, computers, and smartphones.

Adjusting to New Glasses

When your child first gets glasses, it may take some time for them to adjust to wearing them. Here’s how you can help:

1. Start Slow

Encourage your child to wear their glasses for short periods at first, gradually increasing the time as they become more comfortable.

2. Ensure Proper Fit

Make sure the glasses fit properly. If they are too loose or too tight, visit the optician for adjustments.

3. Positive Reinforcement

Praise your child for wearing their glasses and emphasize how much better they can see with them. Positive reinforcement can make them feel good about wearing glasses.

4. Dealing with Peer Pressure

Some children may feel self-conscious about wearing glasses, especially if they are the first among their peers to need them. Talk to your child about the importance of wearing glasses and how many people, including their favorite celebrities and athletes, wear them.

Maintaining and Caring for Glasses

Proper care and maintenance of glasses will ensure they last longer and continue to provide clear vision.

1. Cleaning the Lenses

Teach your child how to clean their lenses properly:

• Use a microfiber cloth to clean the lenses daily.
• Avoid using tissues or clothing to clean the lenses, as these can scratch them.
• Use lens cleaning solution or water to remove smudges.

2. Safe Storage

Encourage your child to store their glasses in a protective case when they are not wearing them. This will prevent damage and keep the glasses clean.

3. Regular Check-Ups

Schedule regular follow-up visits with the optometrist to check if your child’s prescription needs updating and to ensure their glasses are still in good condition.

When to Replace Glasses

Even with the best care, there will come a time when your child’s glasses need to be replaced. Here are some signs that it might be time for a new pair:

1. Scratched Lenses

Scratched lenses can impair vision and should be replaced to ensure your child can see clearly.

2. Outgrown Frames

Children grow quickly, and what fit last year might not fit now. If the frames are too tight or loose, it’s time for a new pair.

3. Prescription Changes

If your child’s prescription changes, new lenses will be required, and it may be a good opportunity to get new frames as well.

4. Wear and Tear

Frames can become loose or damaged over time. If the frames are bent, cracked, or otherwise compromised, it’s time to consider replacing them to ensure the glasses remain functional and comfortable for your child. Well-maintained glasses not only improve vision but also contribute to your child’s confidence and comfort.

Visit Tennessee Eye Care for Your Child’s Vision Needs

Ensuring your child has the correct eyewear is essential for their academic success, social confidence, and overall well-being. At Tennessee Eye Care, we understand the importance of finding the perfect glasses for your child. Our experienced optometrists provide comprehensive eye exams tailored specifically for children, ensuring their vision needs are accurately diagnosed. We offer a wide selection of frames and lenses, including options that are durable, comfortable, and stylish, making sure your child feels great about wearing their glasses.

If you think your child might need glasses or if it’s time for their next eye exam, schedule an appointment with Tennessee Eye Care today. We’re here to help your child see the world more clearly and comfortably. Visit us at any of our East Tennessee locations, or contact us online to book your appointment now. Your child’s vision is our priority!