Your little guy or gal is squinting and crying. Maybe they’re struggling with vision issues, but how do you know when your child needs glasses? For older kids, it’s a little easier. If they can’t see the whiteboard at school, that’s usually a pretty good sign. However, what if your child is too little and can’t vocalize what they’re seeing — or not seeing?
The first years of your child’s life are full of exciting changes and growth. As their visual system develops, it may become necessary to assist this normal process with glasses. Unfortunately, your toddler won’t be able to tell you they need help. That’s why you need to keep an eye out for the signs that they need some visual assistance.
Signs Your Toddler Needs Glasses
Your toddler isn’t going to tell you they have blurry vision. To them, this may be normal because it’s what they’re used to. You’ll need to look out for a few hints and signs that your toddler doesn’t see the way they should:
- Sitting Too Close to the TV: This is an indicator that your child may be nearsighted. Granted, some kiddos just love to get up close and personal with the TV. To be sure, ask your child to scoot back. If they continue to inch forward, it may be a vision issue.
- Squinting: By squinting their eyes, your child may be attempting to correct their focus or improve clarity.
- Coloring Close to the Page: If you see your child hunched over their coloring sheet, it may be because they’re having difficulties seeing it. If this becomes a habit, you should get their vision checked out.
- Excessive Eye-Rubbing: When a child experiences eye strain or fatigue, they may rub their eyes.
Remember, these are just some of the signs your toddler needs glasses. The most important thing to keep in mind is to listen to your child. While they might not know exactly what kind of issue their vision is experiencing, but they may comment about difficulty seeing certain things here and there. They know best when it comes to their own vision.
Check Your Toddler’s Vision
Most experts suggest waiting until a child enters school at around three or four years old to have their first eye doctor appointment. However, if you’re witnessing signs of poor vision, make an appointment for your toddler to see an eye doctor as soon as possible.
Because young children won’t be able to read a traditional eye chart, try playing vision games with your toddler to see what they see. Games like “I Spy” are a perfect exercise. You can also ask them to describe the colors and shapes of objects they see in the distance.
Purchasing Your Toddler’s First Pair of Glasses
After finding out the signs your toddler needs glasses, it’s time to finally buy them their first pair. If it turns out that your child needs prescription eyeglasses, turn to the helpful team at Eyebuydirect for their first frames. We have a huge selection of kids’ eyeglasses at great prices. With your little ones growing up like reeds, it makes sense to buy quality frames that are also affordable. Plus, with these prices, you can buy multiples just in case a pair get lost.
We offer great value with every purchase, including a 14-day Fit & Style Guarantee to ensure ideal fit. You’ll also enjoy a 12-month Product Guarantee so you can be sure of the quality of our products. For both cute and trendy styles, browse our selection of kids’ frames today!