Eyeglasses for Infants and Children

Dr. Burke is one of Cincinnati’s most trusted resources concerning eyeglasses for infants & children.

Why are glasses prescribed for children?

Glasses are usually prescribed for children to improve vision or to prevent and treat amblyopia (“lazy eye”) or eye muscle problems. Children with focusing problems such as myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism may also need corrective lenses.

How are glasses prescribed?

The focusing power of a baby’s eyes can be tested even before he or she is able to speak. After dilating a baby’s pupil, the ophthalmologist uses an instrument called a retinoscope to determine the focusing power of the eye. Children who talk but do not yet know their letters or numbers can be asked to identify pictures of common objects to help determine the lens power they need.

How do you choose a suitable frame with a proper fit?

Frames come in all shapes and sizes, so choosing one that will fit the child’s needs is important. Ask the optician to recommend the most suitable frame style for the child’s facial features, age, prescription, and activities. Ask about the quality and expected lifetime of the frame and the frame guarantee, if there is one.

What types of lenses are the best?

Lenses made of impact resistant plastic are preferable. Polycarbonate lenses are the most common and offer the most protection for a child. Polycarbonate is an especially strong, shatterproof, and lightweight plastic. Prescription sunglasses and transition lenses (become darker in sunlight) may be purchased if your child is sensitive to light.

How do I keep the glasses on my child?

Don’t make a big fuss about the glasses. If your child is old enough, let him or her help pick out the frame. Be sure to follow your optician’s advice about the proper frame size and fit because these are often more important than the appearance of the frame. Be positive about the glasses and your child’s appearance in them.

Don’t get into a tug-of-war with your infant. Try to distract him or her after you put the glasses on. If your child removes them, put them back on. If it happens again, set the glasses aside for a while and try again later. If your child continues to remove the glasses, call Dr. Burke for further instruction and directions.

Click the following links for additional information.

Glasses For Children

Fitting Glasses For Children