What To Look For In Children’s Eyeglass Frames

You think your child is struggling to see so you make a visit to the eye doctor. Thirty minutes later, you find out you were right!  She needs glasses.

You walk to the section filled with lots of children’s frames and choices. Then, a friendly optician tries to help you, but he’s speaking a different language with words like “polycarbonate” and “spring hinges.”  How do you choose?

Never fear, I’m here to help.  Here’s what you need to know when picking out children’s eyeglasses frames!

Look For Durability

Children’s glasses are designed for their intended wearers: kids! But, check that the frame has features like “spring hinges” – which allow the temples (the long “arm” that stretches from the lens to the ears) to bend forwards and backwards without breaking.  Plastic frames have always been a great option for children because they are hard to break and are lightweight. But, nowadays most metal or “wire” frames are also made of alloys that are designed to last.  Ask if there is a warranty available for the frame.

Check Comfort

Your child will not wear them if they hurt! Make sure you find a frame that is comfortable, won’t slide down (or off) and doesn’t irritate. Metal frames often come with nose pads that help the frame stay put on a smaller nose.  Likewise, cable temples that wrap all the way around the ears are available on some metal frames and will keep the glasses from falling off a younger child.

Think Safety

Most kids’ lenses are now made of a material called polycarbonate which is more durable, lighter weight and more impact resistant.  Many eye doctors are also recommending that children’s lenses be photochromic (lenses that change to sunglasses and then change back) so that your child will be protected from harmful UV rays when he or she is playing outside.

Think Style

Finally, no kid wants to look nerdy. And, there is no reason too!  Some great brands like Spada and Little League Baseball are making super cute and stylish kids frames that are more likely to get your child compliments rather than called four eyes! Check out these two cuties!

Hopefully, this guide will help you pick the perfect pair of glasses for your son or daughter.  But, don’t be afraid to ask questions! Your local America’s Best optometrist and optician will be happy to help you as you enter this new world of vision correction!