With kids spending more time than ever in front of a screen, whether it’s a digital phone, TV, or pad, it’s not surprising that there are increasing rates of eyestrain and kids who need glasses. Although pandemic restrictions have decreased in most areas, allowing adults and teens more freedom and options to leave their screens, the addiction has set in.
According to research, the number of children in their early to mid-teens who need prescription glasses has doubled in the last 10 years.
The same study reported that 73% of parents couldn’t drag their children away from their devices for even a few hours a day. Since digital devices are here to stay, the next best thing parents can do is help their teen adjust to life with glasses.
At ABC Children’s Eye Specialists, PC, our expertly trained pediatric optometrists and ophthalmologists share ideas to help your teenager get comfortable with their glasses.
As if you’d ever be able to make your teen wear glasses that they didn’t like! Get them to think of their glasses as an accessory as opposed to something they have to wear.
If they can choose the style, color, material, and shape that they think reflect their style and personality, they’ll be much more likely to not only wear them — but they may even like them.
The most important aspect of getting your teen comfortable wearing glasses is to make sure they’re comfortable to wear. An optometrist or optician can help ensure your child’s glasses fit well, won’t fall off, and don’t pinch or gap anywhere.
Teenagers can be insecure, just like the rest of us. Telling them that you like their glasses or that they look good in them can go a long way toward making your teen feel good and confident while wearing them.
If your teen is still skittish about their glasses, they may get over that on their own after they see for themselves the benefits of wearing them. If not, you can remind them that they won’t feel as much eyestrain and that their newly improved vision can help them at school.
Does your child need glasses? Call ABC Children’s Eye Specialists, PC, which has offices in Mesa and Phoenix, Arizona, to make an appointment with one of our specially trained optometrists or ophthalmologists. You can also request one online through this website.
