Kids' Glasses & Eye Exams

Eye tests are free for children under 19 in Alberta. Durable frames, expert fitting, and myopia control — all under one roof.

Book a Kids' Eye Test 3-for-1 from $199

Why Children's Eye Exams Matter

Good vision is essential for learning, sports, and social development. Up to 80% of what a child learns in school is presented visually — reading, writing, board work, and screen-based activities all depend on clear, comfortable vision.

Children often do not realize they have a vision problem because they assume everyone sees the same way. A child who cannot see the board clearly may not complain — they just fall behind. Regular eye tests catch issues early, when treatment is most effective.

Key Visual Skills for Learning

  • Visual acuity — clear vision at all distances (board, desk, and screen)
  • Eye teaming — both eyes working together accurately
  • Eye tracking — smooth, accurate eye movement for reading
  • Focusing — shifting focus between near and far quickly

In Alberta, children under 19 receive a free annual eye test. No referral is needed. Book your child's eye test today.

Child wearing glasses — kids eye test at Fantastic Glasses in Okotoks

Signs Your Child May Need Glasses

Watch for these common indicators — and book an exam if you notice any

Squinting or Closing One Eye

Squinting temporarily improves focus by changing the shape of the eye. If your child squints to see the TV, read signs, or look at the board, they may be compensating for blurry vision.

Sitting Too Close

Holding devices very close, sitting right in front of the TV, or hunching over homework can indicate nearsightedness (myopia). The closer the object, the clearer it appears to a myopic eye.

Headaches & Eye Rubbing

Frequent headaches (especially after school or screen time) and excessive eye rubbing can signal eye strain from uncorrected vision problems or focusing difficulties.

Declining School Performance

Difficulty reading, losing their place while reading, avoiding close-up work, or a drop in grades can all be connected to undiagnosed vision problems. A comprehensive eye test can rule it out or confirm it.

Conditions We Screen For

  • Myopia (nearsightedness) — distant objects are blurry. The most common vision problem in school-age children. If caught early, myopia control treatments can slow progression by 50–60%.
  • Hyperopia (farsightedness) — close-up objects are harder to focus on. Can cause headaches and eye strain during reading.
  • Astigmatism — irregularly shaped cornea causes blurred vision at all distances. Corrected with glasses or contacts.
  • Amblyopia (lazy eye) — one eye develops weaker vision. Early treatment with patching or glasses is critical — after age 7, treatment becomes much harder.
  • Strabismus (eye turn) — eyes do not align properly. Can cause double vision and depth perception problems.

Our Essilor R800 eye test catches all of these conditions with the most precise measurements available — 0.01 diopter accuracy.

Essilor R800 eye test for children — precision pediatric testing

3 Pairs of Kids' Glasses from $199

Three frames with single vision lenses — a main pair, a backup, and maybe sunglasses. Free eye test included.

Learn About the 3-for-1 Deal Book Appointment

Frequently Asked Questions About Kids' Glasses

Are children's eye exams covered by Alberta Health?

Yes. In Alberta, eye exams are free for children under 19 — no referral needed. At Fantastic Glasses, every eyewear purchase also includes a free eye test on our Essilor R800, regardless of age.

When should my child have their first eye exam?

The Canadian Association of Optometrists recommends: 6 months, age 3, before starting school (age 5), and annually from ages 6 to 18. Many vision problems are easier to treat when caught early.

How do I know if my child needs glasses?

Watch for: squinting, sitting too close to the TV, frequent headaches, difficulty reading, tilting their head, eye rubbing, or declining school performance. Many children compensate without realizing it, so regular exams are important even without obvious symptoms.

What frames are best for kids?

Look for durable frames with flexible hinges, impact-resistant materials, and proper bridge fit. The most important factor is that your child likes them enough to actually wear them. Our opticians ensure proper fit — glasses that slide down or pinch end up in a drawer, not on a face.

Do you offer myopia control for children?

Yes. We offer myopia control lenses, multifocal contact lenses, and atropine drops to slow nearsightedness progression. Myopia control lenses are available as 2 pairs from $499. If your child's prescription is increasing year over year, ask about myopia control.

How much do kids' glasses cost?

Three pairs of kids' glasses start at $199 with our 3-for-1 deal. That includes frames, single vision lenses, and a free eye test. We offer direct insurance billing so you can use your benefits with no paperwork.

Kids' Eye Care Near You

Fantastic Glasses is located at Unit 401, 235 Milligan Dr, Okotoks, AB — serving families from Calgary, High River, Black Diamond, Turner Valley, De Winton, and surrounding communities. South Calgary families in Shawnessy, Cranston, and McKenzie Towne are just a 20-minute drive.

We make the experience fun and pressure-free for kids. Walk-ins are welcome, but booking ahead guarantees your time slot — especially useful with little ones.

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Fantastic Glasses storefront — kids' eye care in Okotoks near Calgary

Give Your Child the Gift of Clear Vision

Annual eye tests are free for children under 19. Book today and make sure your child is seeing their best. Call (587) 997-3937 or book online.

Book a Kids' Eye Test 3-for-1 from $199
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