Signs that your child might need glasses include squinting or tilting the head to see something, sitting close to the television, holding books close to the face when reading and having difficultly seeing things in the distance. A child with vision problems might also blink frequently, rub his eyes and suffer from headaches, according to the website Eye Doctor Guide. Uncorrected vision problems can contribute to learning problems, so make an appointment to have your child's eyes checked at least once a year, preferably before the start of each school year.
Prescription Glasses
When buying children's prescription eyeglasses, it is essential to consider their durability. Look for features, such as frame flexibility, which help the glasses withstand everyday wear and tear, and spring hinges, which allow the temples to flex in either direction. Frames made of materials such as stainless steel and titanium are light but strong, and hold up well for children. Polycarbonate lenses, as opposed to glass, are best for children because they are lightweight and resistant to impact. They can also be treated with a coating to make them more scratch-resistant. If your child has sensitivities to metals, ask about hypoallergenic frame materials. Other factors, including facial fit and degree of vision correction, can affect your choice of frames. Your optician will be able to help you pick the best frames for your child.
Sunglasses
Sunglasses are just as important for children as they are for adults. Sunglasses help prevent squinting, and also protect the eye from the sun's ultraviolet rays. If your child requires corrective lenses all the time, be sure his eyes are shielded from the sun with prescription sunglasses. Clip-on and magnetic sunglasses, which snap onto regular eyeglass frames, are convenient but may not be the best choice for children who frequently lose things. Photochromic or "transition" lenses automatically darken when exposed to light, thus serving as all-in-one indoor and outdoor eyeglasses.
Sports Eyewear
If your child requires eyeglasses and is active in sports you will want to consider purchasing prescription sports goggles. Even though the polycarbonate lenses of regular children's eyeglasses are safe, the frames themselves do not provide adequate protection from sports equipment, according to the website All About Vision. In the event your child is hit with an object causing the frames to make contact with the face, a larger eye opening allows the contact points to be well outside the eye, whereas a smaller eye opening might allow the goggle to hit the edge of the eye socket. Sports goggles must be fitted properly, so consult with a vision care specialist to be sure your child's eyes are properly protected.
