Discovering that your child needs glasses can be a challenge not just for them but for you as well. For some kids, it can be hard to keep their glasses on. Continue reading to find out the reasons behind this behavior and effective solutions to ensure your child benefits fully from their eyewear.
Why Do Kids Remove Their Glasses?
Children may remove their glasses for various reasons. Often, it’s due to discomfort or adjustment issues rather than outright refusal. That said, their glasses or contact lenses should fit your child’s lifestyle, whether they’re more engaged in active outdoor activities or quiet indoor learning. If discomfort is the issue, the glasses might be too tight or too loose or the nose pads might be digging into their skin. Emotional reactions, like feeling different from their peers or experiencing frustration, can also lead to your child taking off their glasses.
Importance of Proper Fit and Comfort
The first step in addressing this issue is ensuring the glasses fit perfectly. Choose frames that appeal to your child and are comfortable for long periods. Consider the material of the frames, the weight, and how they rest on the ears and nose. Proper fit prevents the glasses from slipping, a common annoyance that can discourage regular use.
Gradual Introduction to Eyewear
Introducing glasses to your child’s routine can be likened to starting a new habit—it requires patience and consistency. Start by having your child wear their glasses for short, enjoyable activities where clear vision enhances the experience, such as watching their favorite TV show or reading a beloved book. Gradually increase the wearing time, and make wearing glasses part of their morning routine, akin to brushing their teeth. This method helps normalize the use of glasses in your child’s daily life.
Building a Positive Glasses Culture
Children often mimic what they see and perceive as normative behavior. Highlighting family members or friends who wear glasses, or pointing out their favorite characters in books and TV shows who wear glasses, can create a positive association. This also provides an excellent opportunity to show your child that many people around them wear glasses, normalizing the experience and maybe even turning it into an exciting new aspect of their identity.
Handling Resistance With Empathy
Understanding and empathizing with your child’s feelings about glasses can significantly influence their willingness to wear them. Engage in open conversations about their fears and reassure them of the benefits. When resistance is due to discomfort or the glasses interfering with activity, consult an eye exam doctor to adjust the fit or explore more suitable options like sports straps or flexible frame materials.
Consistency and Reinforcement
Positive reinforcement plays a crucial role in encouraging your child to keep their glasses on. Celebrate the milestones and make a big deal out of the clear vision they are experiencing. However, if your child still frequently removes their glasses, explore underlying reasons such as incorrect prescription or the need for vision therapy. These factors can be easily overlooked but are essential for ensuring your child’s glasses improve their daily life.
Lumen Optometric is committed to supporting you and your child in taking care of their eyes. We also offer orthokeratology. Call us at (626) 921-0199 or fill out our contact form to schedule a consultation.