Choosing the right glasses for your child can be daunting. With so many styles and options to consider, it may feel overwhelming if you aren’t sure where to start.
Comfort and durability, fit and style, eye-protection and lens care; there are lots of elements that come into play when it comes to finding the perfect glasses for your kids.
The most important part of choosing eyewear is making sure your child feels comfortable, confident, and happy in their new glasses. Whether they need lenses full-time, or only in some settings or activities – finding frames your child loves will make the transition into wearing glasses simpler and smoother.
So, what are the main things you should think about to choose the right glasses for kids? Here are some simple tips and ideas to keep in mind.
Which kind of glasses are best for kids?
Booking an eye test with an optician is the first step to improving your child’s eyesight.
If your child needs corrective eyewear, finding children’s glasses which help improve their vision and eye health will be number one on the checklist.
Glasses can be expensive, so helping your child find glasses which will be durable and resistant to damage are a no-brainer for avoiding replacement purchases and saving costs in the long run. Many manufacturers offer styles which combine trendy silhouettes with sturdy materials, so your child can have the best of both worlds with frames which look good and are built to last.
When it comes to lenses, an optometrist will recommend a prescription strength based on the results of your child’s eye test, but polycarbonate is recommended as a good option for kids – especially if they wear glasses full-time – as the these lenses will be able to withstand the general wear and tear of everyday life, school, and play!
Help your child feel confident in their glasses
Although fit and functionality should always come first when it comes to choosing the right glasses for kids, finding a style they love will help your child adjust to the change – especially if you’re shopping for their first pair.
Feeling good in glasses – Top tips
Have fun with styles: there are many fun and trendy glasses frames available for kids, so let your child explore different styles and colours to find the perfect pair. Whether they prefer bold and colourful frames, or something more subtle and classic, there is a world of options to choose from!
Get your child involved: take them to the optometrist with you and let them try on different frames. This way, they can see how each pair looks and feels on their face. Encourage them to express their opinions and preferences; this will help them feel more confident and excited about wearing glasses.
Consider their lifestyle: when kids are involved in sports or other physical activities, it’s worth looking into frames that are specifically designed for active lifestyles. These frames may have features like rubberized grips or adjustable straps to ensure a secure fit during movement.
Glasses care: once your child has chosen their favorite frames, make sure they understand the importance of taking care of their glasses. Teach them how to clean their lenses properly and remind them to always store their glasses in a protective case when not in use. By instilling good habits early on, you can help prolong the life of their glasses.
Finding the right glasses for your child is not just about functionality, but also about making them feel confident and comfortable. With the right pair of glasses, your child will be able to see the world clearly and embrace their style with confidence.
With trendy collections and prescription styles from Ted Baker, Prada, Ray-Ban, and more (available in stores), Gormley offers a fantastic selection of stylish frames to fit every lifestyle.
Does my child need glasses? – Signs to look out for
The College of Optometrists say 74% of the UK uses corrective eyewear or surgery, so the chance that your child may need glasses is relatively high – yet a quarter of parents say their kids have never had an eye test.
If you’re wondering whether your child needs glasses, there are a few signs you can look out for. One common indicator is if they frequently squint or rub their eyes – especially when trying to read or see things from a distance.
Another sign is if they often complain of headaches or eye strain – particularly after doing activities that require visual focus, such as reading or using electronic devices. Additionally, if your child frequently tilts their head or covers one eye when looking at objects, it could be a sign of vision problems.
These signs may not always indicate a need for glasses, but they are worth discussing with an optometrist. Regular eye exams are crucial for detecting potential vision issues early on and ensuring that your child’s eyesight is properly taken care of.
The sooner vision problems are identified and addressed, the better it is for your child’s overall eye health and development.
Book a children’s eye test
Booking a children’s eye test is simple, with services available to parents who want to ensure their child’s eyesight is properly assessed.
A simple option is to schedule an appointment with an optometrist, who will specialise in eye care and can perform comprehensive eye exams for people of all ages.
Gormley Opticians offer comprehensive eye tests with qualified optometrists, who give advice on eye health, vision, and any issues relating to your child’s eyesight. Our exams not only help you get the best advice on glasses and lenses, but will also check your child’s general eye health for early warning signs of common eye diseases or disorders such as glaucoma, cataracts, or refractive errors.
Our in-store Strabane and Ballybofey opticians practices are central and accessible, offering professional optometrical advice, an on-site glazing lab (Strabane), and a fantastic choice of glasses for children – from budget-friendly to designer.
So, don’t hesitate – book a children’s eye test today and give your child the freedom of clear vision.
