How to Choose the Right Glasses for Kids This School Year

As the new school year begins, making sure your child’s vision is clear and comfortable can set them up for success both in the classroom and on the playground. Glasses are part of your child’s daily life, so it’s important to choose the right pair. From scheduling a comprehensive eye exam to picking frames, ensuring the perfect fit, and selecting the right lenses, here’s what parents should know.
 

Start with a Comprehensive Eye Exam

Before shopping for glasses, schedule a comprehensive eye exam with our optometrist. An eye exam goes beyond checking whether your child needs glasses. It can detect early signs of eye health issues and determine specific vision needs such as near or farsightedness, astigmatism, or focusing problems. Knowing your child’s exact prescription is the foundation for selecting the right eyewear.
 

Choose Durable, Comfortable Frames

Kids are active, so their glasses need to keep up. Look for frames made of lightweight yet sturdy materials like flexible plastics or titanium. Spring hinges can help prevent damage from bending, and adjustable nose pads can improve comfort. Involve your child in choosing colors and styles they like - when they’re excited about their glasses, they’re more likely to wear them consistently.
 

Ensure the Perfect Fit

A proper fit isn’t just about comfort - it’s essential for clear vision. Frames should sit straight and snug on the face without sliding down the nose or pressing behind the ears. The lenses should align with the eyes’ center to avoid distortion. Your optician can make sure the glasses are adjusted to fit securely while still allowing room for growth.
 

Select the Right Lenses

Lenses are just as important as the frames. For children, impact-resistant polycarbonate lenses are a great choice - they’re lightweight, provide UV protection, and are highly durable. Consider an anti-reflective coating to reduce glare from screens and classroom lighting, as well as scratch-resistant coatings to extend the life of the lenses. If your child spends a lot of time outdoors, photochromic lenses that darken in sunlight can add extra protection.
 

Start the School Year with Clear Vision

The right pair of glasses can help your child see clearly, feel confident, and perform their best in school. By starting with a thorough eye exam, choosing kid-friendly frames, ensuring a secure fit, and selecting the right lenses, you can set them up for a year of visual success.
 

Make sure your child starts the school year with the vision they need to thrive. Schedule a comprehensive eye exam at 20/20 Optometric of Fresno to find the perfect glasses for your child. Visit our office in Fresno, California, or call (559) 221-8900 to book an appointment today.