Most children never say "I can't see properly." They don't know what clear vision looks like, so blurry feels normal to them. That's why parents are usually the first to notice something's off, if they know what to look for.

Here are the everyday signs, when to book an eye test, and how to pick a first pair of frames that fit well and survive school life.

Signs Your Child May Need an Eye Test

None of these proves a vision problem on its own. But if you keep seeing them, or see a few together, get your child checked. One less obvious cause of eye strain and double vision in kids is covered in our guide to convergence insufficiency.

Other things to notice

• Losing their place while reading, or using a finger to follow the line.
• Avoiding reading, drawing or colouring that they used to enjoy.
• Watery eyes, or eyes that look red or tired.
• Clumsiness with ball games, or misjudging distances.
• Saying things look blurry, though many young children never do.

Myths Parents Hear About Kids and Glasses

When to Book an Eye Test

• Ask your eye doctor about a first check in the early years. Many recommend one around age 3 and another before school starts.
• After that, a test every year or two is common. Your doctor will tell you what suits your child.
• Go sooner if you notice any signs above, or if there's a family history of strong glasses, squint or lazy eye.
• If your child already wears glasses and says things look blurry, don't wait for the next due date.

What Happens at a Child's Eye Test

• Your child doesn't need to read letters, so even young children can be tested.
• The doctor checks how well each eye sees, how the eyes work together and how healthy the eyes are.
• Some children get eye drops so the doctor can get an accurate reading. Your doctor will explain why.
• If glasses are needed, you'll get a prescription. Keep a copy and note the date.

How to Choose Your Child's First Frames

A good pair of kids' glasses is comfortable, fits well and can take a hit in the playground. Here's what to look for.

You can browse our Kids Frames, including frames for boys and frames for girls, to compare styles and sizes.

Quick Fit Check

Lens Features That Help Kids

Lens features add to the price, so pick the ones that match your child's day.

• Impact-resistant lenses. Kids drop and knock their glasses a lot, so ask about lens materials that take impact better.
• Scratch-resistant coating. It helps lenses survive rough handling.
• UV protection. Playground and school hours outdoors add up.
• Anti-glare. It cuts reflections, which helps when your child reads or looks at the board.

See our lens coatings guide for more, and check the Lens Collection or Personalize Your Lenses for what's available with your child's prescription. Heading back to school? Our back-to-school kids' eyeglasses guide covers fit and durability.

Helping Your Child Wear Their Glasses

• Let your child help choose the frame. This matters more than anything else.
• Start with short stretches at home, then build up.
• Make it a routine: glasses on in the morning, in the case at night.
• Tell the teacher, so they can encourage your child and give them a good seat.
• Stay positive. Tell them they look great, and don't allow teasing.
• If you can, keep a spare pair at home or in the school bag, especially for a strong prescription.
• Explain what glasses do in words a child understands.

Looking After Kids' Glasses

• Teach your child to take glasses off with both hands, so the arms don't bend.
• Clean with a microfibre cloth and lens spray, not a shirt or tissue.
• Use a hard case in the school bag.
• Don't leave glasses on the floor, on a seat or in a hot car.
• Check the fit every few months, since kids grow fast.
• Replace frames when they get too small, and update the prescription when the doctor says so.

Mistakes to Avoid

Frequently Asked Questions