2024-08-31
Getting your child to wear their eyeglasses consistently can feel like a daily battle. The secret to winning that battle starts long before the prescription is filled. It begins with choosing frames that your child genuinely likes, that fit their face properly, and that can withstand the rough-and-tumble reality of childhood. Here at Fantastic Glasses in Okotoks, we have helped hundreds of families find kids' eyewear that checks every box.
Start with a Proper Eye Exam
Before you even think about frames, the first step is getting a comprehensive eye exam. Children's vision changes rapidly, and an accurate prescription is the foundation of comfortable eyeglasses. Many vision problems in children go undetected because kids assume everyone sees the way they do. Annual eye exams are recommended starting at age six, or earlier if there is a family history of vision issues.
At Fantastic Glasses, we offer a free Essilor R800 eye test with every eyewear purchase, making it easy for families to stay on top of their children's vision health without worrying about added costs.
Durability Is Non-Negotiable
Children are hard on everything they own, and eyeglasses are no exception. When shopping for kids' frames, prioritize materials that can handle daily wear and tear:
- Flexible titanium or memory metal frames that bend without breaking are ideal for active children.
- TR-90 nylon frames are lightweight, hypoallergenic, and extremely durable, making them a popular choice for younger wearers.
- Spring hinges allow the temples to flex outward, which is critical for preventing breakage when kids pull glasses on and off carelessly.
- Polycarbonate lenses are impact-resistant and significantly lighter than traditional glass, offering built-in safety for playground activities and sports.
Ask your optician about lens options that include scratch-resistant coatings. Children are far less careful about placing their glasses lens-side up on surfaces, so a durable coating can extend the life of the lenses significantly.
Let Your Child Choose (Within Reason)
One of the most effective strategies for getting children to wear their glasses is giving them a say in the selection process. When a child feels ownership over the choice, they are far more likely to wear their eyeglasses proudly rather than hiding them in a backpack.
Tips for the Selection Process
- Pre-select a range of three to five frames that meet your criteria for durability and fit, then let your child make the final choice from that curated selection.
- Bring your child to the store when they are well-rested and in a good mood. A tired or hungry child will not enjoy the shopping experience.
- Take photos of your child in different frames and let them compare. Sometimes seeing themselves in a picture helps them decide.
- Avoid dismissing their preferences. If they want bright red frames and a red pair fits well, go with it.
With over 2,000 frames in stock at our Okotoks location, including brands like Ray-Ban and Oakley that have dedicated youth lines, there is no shortage of styles for young wearers to explore.
Getting the Right Fit
A poor fit is one of the main reasons children stop wearing their glasses. Frames that slide down the nose, pinch behind the ears, or sit crookedly on the face will be uncomfortable and ultimately abandoned. Here is what to look for:
- Bridge fit: The bridge should rest comfortably on the nose without pinching or sliding. For younger children with flatter nose bridges, look for frames with adjustable silicone nose pads.
- Temple length: The temples should extend straight back to the ear and curve gently down. They should not press into the side of the head or extend too far past the ear.
- Frame width: The frames should be roughly as wide as the child's face. Oversized frames look trendy on adults but tend to slide and bounce on children.
- Lens height: Children look upward more often than adults, so a taller lens area ensures they are looking through the correct part of the lens during various activities.
Consider Their Lifestyle and Activities
Think about what your child does throughout the day. A child who plays sports needs a different frame than one who spends most of their time reading and doing crafts. For sporty kids, consider wraparound styles or frames with rubberized temple tips that grip behind the ear. A retainer strap can also be a lifesaver during physical education classes and organized sports.
For children who spend significant time on tablets, computers, or gaming consoles, blue light filtering lenses are worth considering. These lenses reduce exposure to high-energy blue light emitted by screens, which can contribute to eye strain and disrupted sleep patterns in young people.
Planning for Growth
Children grow quickly, and a pair of frames that fits perfectly today may be too small in six months. While you should not buy frames that are too large for your child's current face, keep growth in mind:
- Budget for a new pair roughly every 12 to 18 months, depending on how fast your child grows.
- Our 3-for-1 deal starting at $199 is particularly helpful for families, as it allows you to get a primary pair, a backup pair, and potentially a pair of prescription sunglasses all at an affordable price.
- Always keep a backup pair. Children lose and break glasses at the worst possible times, and having a spare prevents stressful emergency trips to the optical shop.
Making Glasses a Positive Experience
How you frame the experience of getting glasses matters enormously. Rather than treating it as a corrective measure for a problem, present it as something exciting. Point out characters in movies and books who wear glasses. Show them photos of athletes and musicians they admire who wear eyewear. Let them know that glasses are a cool accessory, not a burden.
For children who are resistant, start with short wearing periods and gradually increase the time. Positive reinforcement goes a long way. Celebrate the first day wearing glasses to school. Make it a milestone rather than an obligation.
When to Consider Contact Lenses
As children get older, typically around age 12 or 13, some begin asking about contact lenses. This can be a good option for active teens, particularly for sports and social activities. The decision should be based on the child's maturity level and their ability to follow proper hygiene and care routines. Your optometrist can help you determine whether your child is ready for contacts.
Visit Us in Okotoks
Choosing the right eyeglasses for your child does not have to be stressful. At Fantastic Glasses, our team is experienced in fitting young wearers with frames that are durable, comfortable, and stylish. Book your child's eye exam today and let us help you find frames they will actually love wearing. With our wide selection, expert fitting, and family-friendly pricing, your child's new favourite accessory is waiting.