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Educational content only
This page is general patient education, not medical advice. It does not diagnose conditions, recommend specific treatments for you, or replace a conversation with your eye care provider. Always consult a qualified clinician before making decisions about your eye health.
By elementary school, most kids who need glasses are starting to be nearsighted. About 25% of children ages 2-17 need correction, and the share keeps rising. The right frame, the right lens, and a backup pair save many headaches.
Choosing well
Frames, lenses, and habits — that survive kids.
Lens material
Polycarbonate stays the standard
Most impact-resistant; required for any child active in sports or rough play. Builds in UV protection. Slightly more expensive than basic plastic but worth every penny.
Frames
Spring hinges + adjustable nose pads
Spring hinges flex when bent so frames survive the inevitable face-plant. Adjustable pads accommodate growth and small shifts in fit. Cable temples (curved behind the ear) for very active kids.
Backup pairs
Two pairs save the day
Most kids will break, lose, or destroy a pair at some point. Vision insurance plans often cover or discount a second pair — worth the small extra cost to avoid days without glasses.
Sports
Dedicated sports glasses
ASTM F803-rated sports goggles for any racquet, bat, or contact sport. Regular glasses can shatter or be knocked off. Sports goggles are not optional in protected-eyewear sports.
Talk to your eye doctor about myopia management if
Your child's prescription jumps by more than -0.50 D per year, they're already nearsighted before age 10, or there's strong family history of high myopia. Myopia-management options exist that may slow progression — your eye doctor can explain what may be appropriate. They and reduce long-term eye disease risk.
Common questions
Honest answers to common questions.
How do I know if my child needs glasses?+
Common signs: squinting at distance, sitting close to screens/board, frequent eye rubbing, headaches after schoolwork, holding books unusually close. A comprehensive eye exam (not just a screening) checks visual acuity, alignment, focus accuracy, and eye health.
How often should they have an eye exam?+
AAO recommends annual exams for school-age kids, especially through the years when myopia is developing or progressing. Annual exams catch prescription changes and any associated issues like binocular vision problems.
My child broke their glasses. What now?+
Most opticals can fix frame breaks (especially at hinges and bridges) for a small fee. If lenses crack, they need replacement. Vision plans often cover lens replacement once per year. A 24-48-hour turnaround is usually possible — important for school.
Should they wear glasses for screens?+
If they need a distance prescription, yes — for any sustained viewing, including screens, board work, and TV. The lens correction helps the eye focus normally and reduces strain. Doesn't have to be worn for short glances.
Does giving in to glasses make their eyes 'lazy'?+
No. This is a persistent myth. Wearing the correct prescription doesn't accelerate prescription changes. Glasses don't 'weaken' the eye; not wearing them when needed just creates ongoing strain and blurred vision.