Buying glasses for children is a step that many parents go through! Finding the right glasses may seem complex, but with a few helpful tips, you'll be able to make the right choice for your child. This will ensure a successful school year with optimal vision! This article is designed to guide you step-by-step through the process of choosing the best eyewear for your child. Need advice on choosing your own eyewear? Read our article on the subject!
What you'll learn in this article
- Book an eye exam
- Choose the right frame for your child
- Selecting the right lenses
- Encourage your child to wear glasses
- Taking care of glasses
- Regular follow-ups
- Ask our team for advice
What you need to know about buying glasses for children
1. Book an appointment for an eye exam
First and foremost, an eye exam by an optometrist is essential. It is recommended that children have their eyes examined from the age of three. However, if your child squints their eyes stumbles or trips frequently, has difficulty seeing objects at a distance, is unable to complete a task for a few minutes without losing concentration, or frequently rubs their eyes, have them examined earlier. Read our article on the recommended frequency of eye exams to find out more. Book an annual eye exam at New Look to ensure that your child's vision and eye health are closely monitored.
2. Choosing the ideal frame for your child
Comfort and fit
It's crucial to choose a frame that fits your child's small face perfectly. A well-fitting frame won't cause discomfort, and will encourage them to wear their glasses all day long. Our opticians are on hand to adjust the frame upon delivery for optimum comfort!
Durable materials
Plastic frames are often preferred for young children because of their lightness and resistance to impact (a tumble can happen so quickly). However, for children under six, frames with nose pads (the plastic pieces that allow the frame to rest on the nose) may be necessary for a better fit, as the root of the nose is not yet well formed at this age to ensure a good hold in place. Our in-store opticians will make sure that your child's eyes are well centred in the frame you choose.
Style and preferences
Involve your child in their choice of frame! Little ones have taste too. This will make it easier for them to change frames (or start wearing glasses!), and will reflect their personality to the fullest, increasing the chances that your child will want to wear them regularly. Our stores feature a wide selection of colourful frames that are sure to catch their eye.
3. Selecting the right lenses
Prescription
An eye exam is essential to obtain a valid prescription and ensure the best possible vision. Having an eye exam allows you to choose lenses that are adapted to your child's visual needs. For young people, an annual eye exam is recommended, as growth can cause vision to change quite rapidly. Book an appointment here.
Treatment options and lenses
Opticians are THE experts in prescription lenses and treatment options adapted to your child's activities. Talk to them about your child, and they'll be able to guide you. Note that anti-reflective and scratch-resistant coatings are always included at New Look, and that blue-light protection may be recommended if your child uses screens for more than two hours a day. And don't forget sun protection, often overlooked but essential to protect your child's eyes when playing hide-and-seek or tag outdoors! Dynamic Transitions lenses are often an economical option, as they save you having to buy a second pair.
4. Encourage your child to wear glasses
Explain to your child the importance of wearing glasses to improve vision. As a parent, set an example by wearing your own glasses if you have them. Pro tip: expose your kids to their favourite TV show characters who also wear glasses: Milhouse in The Simpsons, Velma in Scooby-Doo, not to mention Clark Kent and Harry Potter!
5. Taking care of glasses
Our opticians will be happy to teach your child how to care for their glasses, but make sure they do it properly to preserve their transparency! Here's how it works: clean glasses in lukewarm water with regular dishwashing soap to loosen dirt, use a tissue to wipe lenses and frame, and finish with a microfiber cloth to polish lenses. Teach them how to use the lens cleaner if they don't have access to a sink, like at school. It's also a good idea to remove glasses with both hands, rather than just one, to avoid misaligning the frame. Store them in their case when not in use to avoid damage, and teach them never to place their glasses with the lenses directly on a surface. Useful lessons for life!
6. Regular follow-ups
Don't forget to schedule annual eye exams to monitor changes in your child's vision. An in-store visit may also be necessary from time to time to adjust glasses as your child grows. Adjustments are free of charge for customers who have purchased their glasses in our store, so take advantage! Don't hesitate to come back sooner if your child complains that their vision has deteriorated or if their frames are becoming uncomfortable.
7. Ask our team for advice
Our experts are here to help you. Don't hesitate to ask for advice on choosing the best glasses for your child.
