After your child receives their comprehensive eye exam before school starts, it may show that they need glasses. Being something completely brand new, this may cause your child some uneasiness. Along with reassuring your child that glasses will help them see better, consider these tips when your child gets new eyeglasses:
- Allow kids to pick their own frames. They will be more comfortable with the idea if they actually like the look of their glasses.
- Also allow your child to pick their own glasses case to keep them safe when they are not wearing them.
- Plastic frames are best for children younger than 2.
- If older kids wear metal frames, make sure they have spring hinges, which are more durable.
- Attach an elastic strap to glasses to keep them in place for active toddlers.
- Practice proper cleaning techniques with a lens cloth with your child.
- Kids with severe eye problems may need special lenses called high-index lenses, which are thinner and lighter than plastic lenses.
- Choose polycarbonate lenses, especially for kids who play sports. Polycarbonate is a tough, transparent, impact-resistant thermoplastic. Polycarbonate lenses also have built in UV protection.
Tips adapted from KidsHealth.