Finding The Perfect Fit For Your Childs Eyeglasses

Identifying the Right Prescription Eyeglasses For Your Child

Correcting and protecting your child’s vision as they grow up is an important responsibility. When a child needs glasses, they require a set of lenses that are the right shape and size for their eyes. They need a secure fit with frames that gently hug their head without being too tight. Finding the perfect fit is crucial for the healthy development of their vision. While your child might have a particular style or color in mind when choosing a pair of frames, it’s up to you to navigate the different sizes and shapes available to find the best fit. Learn about the different aspects of frame fitting to make sure that your child’s next pair of prescription eyeglasses will meet all of their needs.

Temple Length & Fit

The “temple” of a pair of eyeglasses is the arm that extends from the hinges behind the ear and holds the frames firmly against your head. The temples should be made of a flexible yet sturdy material, especially for children, to provide support and structure to the glasses while adapting to their growing face and head. The temple tips should be long and curved enough to hook behind the ear without allowing much space above the top of the ear. There are also separate attachments to the temple tips that secure the glasses further if they have a tendency to slide off smaller or weaker ears.

The width of the frames shouldn’t separate the temple from the side of the child’s head, as the temples of the eyeglasses should rest comfortably flush against the side of the skull. It’s worth mentioning that metal frames are able to be adjusted by your local eyewear professional which can be better suited to your growing child than fused plastic or acrylic frames that remain the same size and shape. It’s crucial for the child’s eyes and for the long term durability of their new eyeglasses that the temples fit and keep the glasses securely on your child’s face.

Glasses Anatomy

Bridge & Nose Pads

The bridge of your glasses can be so subtle that you barely notice it if you have a great fit, but it can also be a major source of pain, discomfort and frustration for small children. There’s a difficult balance between the bridge being too wide and loose, allowing for sliding and dropping, or an overly tight and uncomfortable fit. One way to easily remedy this is by getting a pair of metal frames that can be adjusted, rather than solid plastic frames that have limited flexibility.

Another element to consider is the nose pads and how they help or hurt the overall fit of the frames. The nose pads should be able to compensate if the bridge isn’t the perfect width for your child’s growing face by being easily adjustable while still maintaining their general shape, providing support. The pieces should fit snug enough to support the frames but not be tight enough to leave lasting marks on the nose or cause prolonged discomfort. The bridge and nose pads should work together to keep the frames locked in place on your child’s face without slipping or falling off.

Child With Eyeglasses Perfect Fit

Prescription Lens Size

While the fit of the frame plays an important role, the prescription eyeglass lenses are potentially the most particular element of finding an appropriate pair of eyeglasses for your child. The size and shape of the lenses should compliment the eye shape and facial structure of your child. It doesn’t matter how fashionable an oval pair of lenses may be if they’re not tall enough for the child’s face and eyes. Their eyes should be centered both vertically and horizontally within the lenses. This is especially important with bifocal lenses. This will eliminate squinting, discomfort, double vision, and disorientation.

If your child needs glasses, it’s crucial to have a good fit all around. This will protect their eyesight and protect your investment by keeping the frames from flying off during day-to-day activities. Consider all of these factors when choosing a pair of prescription eyeglasses and always feel free to consult your local eyewear professionals at Gordon Optical for more information and input.

Source Cited: American Association for Pediatric Ophthalmology & Strabismus

ABOUT GORDON OPTICAL

Gordon Optical has been proudly serving the community of Lexington since 1935. Our teams of licensed opticians pride themselves on their dedication to the field and to their patients and customers. If you’re in need of Optometry services prior to selecting new frames, visit our affiliated Optometrist conveniently located next door to our Lexington location Gordon Eye Associates

For more information, contact:

Gordon Optical
info@gordonoptical.com