Did you know that millions of people all over the world are functionally blind simply because they don’t have access to proper eye exams and eyeglasses? That’s why this October 14, we once again bring attention to blindness and other vision problems as we recognize World Sight Day 2021.

How to Choose Glasses for a Child

Due to several factors, it is unfortunate that many children are nearsighted, farsighted or suffering from astigmatism. Having vision problems at such a young age can be a setback for developing kids.

Luckily, these can now be easily corrected with eyeglasses. Walking into an optical store without any idea about what your kids need might be overwhelming. Worse, you might end up getting the wrong eyeglasses for your child.

So for World Sight Day 2021, here are some important tips on how to choose glasses for a child:

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For millions of people around the world, having good vision has become a privilege. Pixabay (CC0)

1. Talk to your child – Your child must understand he/she needs to get glasses. Explain its use as well as how to take care of it. Make sure that you also understand the challenges that he/she is experiencing when it comes to reading/seeing.

2. Find the correct frame size – Thankfully, there's a great variety of frames available for children, even for babies that are only a couple months old. When choosing an eyeglass frame, opt for a smaller size as larger ones have more higher-order aberrations near the lens edge, resulting in distorted peripheral vision.

3. Pick a design your child likes – Give your kid the liberty to choose the eyeglass frame that he/she likes. Try on several pairs before deciding on the pair that your child likes most. It's important that while your child needs to correct his/her eyesight, he/she also feels confident -- not awkward about wearing eyeglasses.

4. Perfect bridge fit – Because children are still growing, they might not have fully developed nose bridges to keep their glasses from sliding down. Luckily, today’s glasses are made with adjustable nose pads for a more flexible fit.

5. Temple style – For your child's glasses, find temples that curve behind the ear. Given how active kids can be, this style keeps glasses more durable. You can also go with adjustable cable temples or headbands. Pick one your child is most comfortable wearing.

6. Lens material – Talk to your child’s optician and ask about available lens options. Choose the material which provides the best impact resistance. Getting lenses that have UV protection is also good for protecting your child’s vision.

Best Glasses for Kids

Here are some of the best kid-friendly eyeglasses online that you should check out:

1. Big John Kids’ Glasses

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Big John Kids’ Glasses glassesusa.com

This Big John Kids’ Glasses is affordably priced and offers great value for money. It is made from durable acetate plastic and you can even choose if you want a single vision lens, nearsighted lens or bifocal lens.

2. Ottoto Pirlo Kids

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Ottoto Pirlo Kids glassesusa.com

For something a bit more serious-looking, check out these classy Ottoto Pirlo Kids’ Glasses. Crafted from lightweight monel and features a shiny hue, adjustable arms and silicone nose, this pair is functional, stylish and perfect for your young scholar.

3. Oakley Steel Plate XS Kids

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Oakley Steel Plate XS Kids glassesusa.com

The Oakley Steel Plate XS is made from ultra-lightweight C-5 metal alloy, integrated spring hinges, adjustable wire-core arms and has comfortable nose pads. Your kid deserves the best and this is exactly what this pair offers.

4. Muse Elliot Kids

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Muse Elliot Kids glassesusa.com

If you’re looking for a retro-style pair of kids’ glasses then the Muse Elliot Kids is what you need. Made from premium acetate with metal accents, sleek arms and a comfy bridge line, this pair exudes a classic cool that your child will love.

5. Revel Lyndon Kids

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Revel Lyndon Kids glassesusa.com

If you’re worried that your child's glasses might fall off and get lost, then the Revel Lyndon Kids is a good option so you can prevent that. In addition to a lightweight frame that's designed to last, this pair also has a neck strap that will keep the glasses secure, regardless of how active your child gets.

6. Baxter Blue Kids Addison (Blush Pink)

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Baxter Blue Kids Addison (Blush Pink) baxterblueglasses.com

The Baxter Blue Kids Addison complements any face shape and features a laidback style that children will like. It makes use of Baxter Blue’s signature blue-light filtering lenses for added eye protection.

7. Baxter Blue Kids Addison (Crystal)

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Baxter Blue Kids Addison (Crystal) baxterblueglasses.com

For a more unique look, pick the Baxter Blue Kids Addison eyeglasses with the crystal color-way. Simple and delicate-looking, this pair looks great on all face shapes and is made from sturdy plastic. It makes use of Baxter Blue’s blue-light filtering lenses for added protection for your child's eyes.

8. Bailey Crystal Red

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Bailey Crystal Red baxterblueglasses.com

For a pop of color, choose the Bailey Crystal Red eyeglasses. Especially made for kids, the Bailey Crystal Red is made from sturdy and kid-safe material and features a stylish design that looks great on all face shapes. It also makes use of the brand's Blue+ ™ light filtering lenses, which have an anti-reflective coating and provides UV protection.