We Can Help You – Get Your Kids to Wear Their Glasses!
If your child has vision problems, wearing glasses can significantly improve their ability to learn, play, and engage with the world around them. But while glasses can be a game-changer, getting a child to actually wear them can be a challenge. Some kids find them uncomfortable, others are self-conscious, and many simply forget to put them on.
If your child resists wearing their glasses, don’t worry—you’re not alone! Many parents face this struggle, and the good news is that there are ways to make the transition smoother. Here are five effective strategies to help your child feel comfortable and confident in their new glasses.
1. Let Kids Pick Their Own Frames
One of the best ways to encourage your child to wear their glasses is to let them choose a pair they love. Giving them a say in the selection process makes them feel more in control and more likely to embrace wearing their new frames.
Here’s how you can make the experience fun and positive:
- Offer choices within limits – While you may have preferences about durability and fit, let your child pick from a selection of kid-friendly options.
- Look for styles that reflect their personality – If your child loves bright colors, bold patterns, or favorite cartoon characters, choose frames that match their style.
- Make it a special event – Turn frame shopping into a fun outing, where they can try on different pairs and admire themselves in the mirror.
A child who feels good about their glasses is more likely to wear them consistently!
2. Set Incremental Daily Goals
For kids who have never worn glasses before, adjusting to them can take time. Instead of expecting them to wear their glasses full-time right away, try setting small, achievable goals.
- Start small – Encourage your child to wear their glasses for 30 minutes at a time, then gradually increase the duration.
- Celebrate progress – Praise them for hitting each milestone, whether it’s wearing them for an hour, keeping them on at school, or putting them on without being reminded.
- Use positive reinforcement – A reward chart or sticker system can make the process more exciting. Let your child earn a small prize after wearing their glasses consistently for a certain number of days.
By breaking it down into manageable steps, your child will feel more comfortable making glasses part of their daily routine.
3. Regularly Check the Fit
If your child’s glasses don’t fit properly, they may be uncomfortable, slide down their nose, or press against their ears, making them reluctant to wear them.
Here’s what to watch for:
- Too tight? – If the glasses leave marks on the skin or cause discomfort, they may need adjusting.
- Too loose? – If they slip down constantly, your child may get frustrated and take them off.
- Crooked frames? – Glasses that sit unevenly may not provide the proper vision correction.
Take your child’s glasses for regular adjustments to ensure a comfortable fit. Many optometry clinics provide free adjustments—just stop by whenever needed!
4. Find Role Models Who Wear Glasses
Children love to imitate people they admire. If your child sees that people they look up to wear glasses, they may feel more confident about wearing their own.
- Look for favorite characters – Many beloved book, TV, and movie characters wear glasses, such as Harry Potter, Velma from Scooby-Doo, and Superman’s alter ego, Clark Kent.
- Point out celebrities and athletes – Many famous figures, including actors, musicians, and sports stars, proudly wear glasses.
- Encourage family connections – If a sibling, parent, or grandparent wears glasses, ask them to share their experience and offer encouragement.
Hearing from real people about the benefits of glasses can help your child see them as a cool and normal part of life.
5. Be Supportive and Consistent
Above all, be patient, supportive, and consistent in reinforcing the importance of wearing glasses. Some children adjust quickly, while others need extra time and encouragement.
Here are some final tips:
- Normalize glasses – Avoid making a big deal about wearing them. Treat it like any other daily habit, such as brushing teeth.
- Offer gentle reminders – If your child forgets to wear their glasses, remind them calmly instead of scolding them.
- Address concerns – If your child complains about discomfort or dislikes their appearance in glasses, listen to their concerns and find solutions together.
- Encourage teachers and caregivers – Let your child’s teacher or daycare provider know that your child needs to wear their glasses and ask for their support in reinforcing the habit.
Pediatric Eye Exams in Edmonton
At Optometrists’ Clinic Inc., we understand that adjusting to glasses can be a challenge for children and parents alike. That’s why we’re here to help! Our team provides comprehensive pediatric eye exams and expert advice on choosing the right frames for your child’s needs.
If you suspect your child may need glasses or want guidance on making the transition easier, contact us today to schedule an appointment at one of our locations in Edmonton, Leduc, or Westlock. Let’s work together to make clear vision a positive experience for your child!
