When it comes to eyeglasses for your kid to wear to school, there are several must-have requirements. They’ve got to be tough to withstand the general rough and tumble of a child’s day, comfortable, and, of course, in a style that your little (or older) one will love to wear.

Sometimes, it can take kids a while to get used to wearing glasses all day; they may even be resistant to the idea. By making sure they’re as comfortable as possible and in a color and design that your child likes, you can increase the chance that they’ll be happy to wear them throughout the whole day.

Choose Eyeglasses Specifically Designed for Kids

It’s crucial to choose a pair of prescription glasses for your child that’s from a range specifically designed for kids. These aren’t just specs that are smaller versions of adult glasses – they tend to take into account a child’s anatomy and head shape and the fact that they’re prone to growing! For example, kids’ glasses usually incorporate a lower bridge, spring hinges, and a deeper lens shape with a curved upper rim. Plus, they’re built for durability.

The Comfort Factor is Crucial

The last thing you want is your child feeling uncomfortable through the school day – and subsequently removing their glasses as they’re pinching the sides of their head or pressing on their nose. As we mentioned above, choosing specs from specific kids’ ranges is a vital element of avoiding this. It’s also important to get your child properly fitted for their glasses by an ophthalmologist so that adjustments can be made to the frame to ensure they fit perfectly and feel good to wear. This will also mean that they fit securely, which is extra important for when your kid is dashing about in the playground or playing soccer with their friends.

Stylish Spectacles

Children often have a strong sense of their own style and love to express themselves in what they wear. Get them onside with the idea of wearing eyeglasses at school by allowing them to choose frames in a color and style that they love. Whether these are a fun, bright, and bold option, on-trend clear glasses, or frames that look like those worn by their favorite celeb, kids’ ranges are now so comprehensive that you’re sure to find something to suit.

Your Child’s First Visit to an Optician

It’s a good idea (unless you have concerns) to have your child’s eyes tested by an eye doctor before they start full-time education to ensure that they can enjoy the best eyeglasses for school. Even if your child seems to have perfect vision, it’s best to book them in for an eye test, just in case: the sooner any vision problems are identified, the sooner they can be resolved. Sometimes, what presents as simply bad behavior at school can be a result of not being able to see clearly, meaning kids can’t focus (literally) on their lessons.

What are the Signs that My Child Needs an Eye Test?

While getting your child’s eyes checked regularly is important, there are some signs to watch out for that could indicate a vision problem. These include:

• Tilting their head or straining their eyes to see better
• Using a finger when reading or frequently losing their place
• Frequent eye rubbing
• Excessive tearing or sensitivity to light
• Complaining of tired eyes or headaches
• Falling behind academically
• A misdirection or ‘turn’ in the eyes
• Consistently holding a book too close or sitting too near to the television
• Avoiding certain activities that either involve close work or the need for good distance vision
• Closing one eye to see better, such as when reading or watching television
• Avoiding using a computer or tablet as it hurts their eyes

Also, look out for what’s called a ‘white reflex’ in photos – it’s similar to red eye, but it’s white. This is extremely serious and should be treated as a medical emergency: seek medical attention for your child immediately if you spot this.

The Takeaway: Choosing the Best Eyeglasses for Your Child to Wear to School

Around 80% or more of classroom learning is of a visual nature: it’s crucial that your child can see clearly during school. Taking your child along for regular eye examinations and – if they need them – choosing the right pair of glasses for them is vital. Selecting a pair of specs from a specific kids’ eyewear range in a style your child loves is the best way to ensure that they enjoy a happy and comfortable time all through the school day.