Children do not always realise their vision is blurred, especially if one eye sees more clearly than the other. At Highbury Optometrists in Birkenhead, we examine children’s eyes, explain what we find to parents and fit glasses to the child in front of us.
Kids’ glasses that fit properly
Children’s glasses need to sit comfortably and stay in place at school, during play and while they move. We check the bridge, frame width, temple length and where the lenses sit in front of your child’s eyes. If a frame slips down, your child may end up looking over the lenses instead of through them.
- Nano Vista Custom Fit kids’ glasses are flexible, tough frames with bridge and temple options for different faces.
- Tomato Glasses for children offer adjustable nose pads and temples, with a strap option to help keep the frame in place.
Bring your child in to try frames on. We can check the fit, discuss suitable lenses and confirm which styles are available.
Children’s eye examinations
An eye examination looks beyond whether a child can read letters on a chart. We assess their vision, how the eyes work together, whether glasses may help and the health of their eyes. If your child is squinting, struggling to see the board, sitting unusually close to a screen or complaining of headaches, an examination can help us find out why. You do not need to wait for a school vision screening if you have concerns.
Book a children’s eye examination or call 09 418 1347. If you are unsure whether your child is old enough for an examination, give us a call.
Common vision problems in children
- Short sight (myopia) makes distant things, such as the classroom board, harder to see clearly.
- Long sight (hyperopia) can make focusing more effortful, particularly for close work.
- Astigmatism can blur or distort vision at near and far distances.
We also check for differences between the eyes and concerns about eye alignment. An examination tells us whether treatment, glasses or further assessment is needed.
Myopia control and a stable frame fit
If your child is becoming more short sighted, ordinary prescription glasses can make vision clearer, but they are not designed to slow the change in prescription. We can discuss myopia control options after assessing your child’s eyes. These may include MiyoSmart spectacle lenses or suitable contact lens options. The aim is to slow progression; results vary and no treatment can promise to stop it.
With myopia control spectacle lenses, accurate lens positioning matters. We select and adjust the frame with the prescribed lens design in mind. Both Nano Vista Custom Fit and Tomato Glasses can be worth trying when the particular frame meets the lens fitting requirements.
Can children wear contact lenses?
Some children can wear contact lenses successfully when they are ready for the handling and hygiene involved and have support at home. Suitability depends on the child, their prescription and eye health, so we assess this individually rather than using age alone.
Help with the cost of children’s glasses
Some children under 16 may qualify for help with an eye examination and glasses. Read about the children’s spectacle subsidy or ask us about eligibility when you book.
Visit us: Highbury Optometrists, 52 Mokoia Road, Birkenhead, Auckland. Book an appointment or call 09 418 1347 to ask about a children’s eye examination or glasses fitting.
