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So, your child needs glasses. Whether they’re nearsighted, farsighted, or have an astigmatism, prescription glasses can help them see clearly and reduce eye strain. However, adjusting to wearing glasses can be challenging for some children.
At Wolcott Optical, we’re proud to provide quality optical solutions to people of all ages, including young children. We want our customers to feel comfortable and confident in their new eyewear. If your child is having a hard time with their new glasses, keep reading to learn expert tips for helping your child adjust to wearing glasses and get advice on how to support them through this transition.
1. Make Glasses Exciting
When you make glasses into an exciting new thing, your child will have an easier time getting used to them. Give them ownership of their glasses by letting them pick a fun color or frame style they like. If they’re still unsure, point out celebrities, athletes, or characters who wear glasses to help them feel more comfortable with their new look.
2. Ease Into Wearing Glasses
Start by having your child wear their glasses in short intervals, and gradually increase these periods over time. For example, you could instruct them to wear their glasses during class, but allow them to take them off during lunch, at recess, or at home. Some children may benefit from a timer or visual schedule to help them build a routine.
Praise your child for wearing glasses, even if it’s just for a few minutes at a time. If they refuse to wear their glasses, don’t punish them or fight with them, as this can cause more problems than it solves. Instead, give them time to cool off and try again later.
3. Emphasize the Benefits of Wearing Glasses
As your child adjusts to wearing glasses, make sure they’re aware of the benefits. Explain how glasses help them see better at school, at home, and at play. Encourage them to notice how things look clearer when they’re wearing glasses.
You can also share stories or examples of how glasses have helped other kids, whether it’s someone you know in real life or a character in a book or movie.
4. Handle Discomfort or Resistance with Patience
Your child may not like wearing glasses at first because they’re not used to the feeling of something on their face. They may complain about the glasses feeling weird or heavy. Make sure their frames fit properly — if they’re too tight or too loose, it can lead to irritation. Reassure your child that they’ll get used to wearing their glasses over time, and keep communication open.
5. Keep Glasses Clean and in Good Shape
Teach your child how to take care of their glasses, including how to keep them clean. Provide a protective case and emphasize its importance. If their glasses get damaged, replace or adjust them as soon as possible to maintain comfort and interest.
6. Set a Good Example
If you or a family member wear glasses, set a good example by showing your child that glasses are normal and helpful. Avoid negative language or complaining about glasses — it’s important to keep the tone positive and encouraging as they get used to wearing glasses.
7. Get Support from Teachers and Caregivers
Inform your child’s teachers or daycare staff about their new glasses. Politely ask them to remind your child to wear their glasses throughout the day and treat them with care. When your child receives consistent messaging from all the most important adults in their life, it will reinforce good habits and help them adjust to wearing glasses.
8. Celebrate the Milestone
Make your child feel special for wearing glasses and assure them that if their new look makes them stand out, it’s in a good way. Celebrate the first day your child wears their glasses to school, helping ease any anxiety about this new situation. Consider a small reward or special outing to reinforce the positive experience.
Eyewear for All Ages at Wolcott Optical
Adjusting to wearing glasses takes time, and every child adapts at their own pace. Whatever you and your child need, Wolcott Optical is here for you. Visit our store in Millcreek, Utah, today to explore our comprehensive selection of kid-friendly frames and get some professional guidance to make the transition as smooth as possible.
