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For younger children, having to wear spectacles can sometimes be an intimidating prospect. It’s not just the thought of wearing them on their face, there’s everything that comes with the process, including the process of determining the correct prescription, the choice of frames and, possibly, the reaction from friends and schoolmates. Luckily today there’s not so much of a stigma as there used to be around wearing spectacles for young people. In fact, with the huge range of stylish, colourful and fun frames available, it can sometimes turn into a bit of a status symbol! One thing that does still cause some anxiety though, is eye tests for children, but there’s really no reason for that. With a few simple tricks it can be relaxed, quick and easy. Making Eye Tests for Children Easy While of course as a parent you won’t be the one conducting the test, it will be a lot easier if you can prepare your child as much as possible beforehand. Find some videos online that show kids at the optician and focus on the fun and interesting aspects of it (like the funny-looking test equipment). You should also reassure your child that you will be with them in the optician’s exam room at all times, so they do not have to be frightened. If you wear specs yourself, it’s a good idea to make your appointment for testing at the same time, so your child can observe you going through the process first. Finally, there’s no shame in promising a reward once the process is over and this can often be highly motivating for a child! How the Opticians do Eye Tests for Children Opticians are highly trained and understand the challenges of doing eye tests for children. A good family optician will make the experience as fun as possible in order to set a good precedent so youngsters will not associate the process with any fear, anxiety or negativity. In most cases, particularly with the very young, the optician will not dilate the eyes as they do in an adult test. This takes away the chance of even any mild discomfort. They’ll test for colour blindness and other issues by using tried and true techniques (for example asking the child to identify favourite colours etc.) that put the youngster at ease, but also allow them to gather valuable information. If the optician discerns that your child does in fact need to wear corrective eyewear, there are plenty of options for hardwearing, colourful and attractive frames that they’ll be proud to wear. For the teenagers, contacts can also be an option they might want to consider. Regular Tests are the Key It’s a good habit to get into to get your child’s eyes tested every two years to ensure there are no underlying problems that may creep in unnoticed. If you get them used to regular trips to the opticians, if or when the need to wear specs comes up they won’t feel daunted by the prospect. There is absolutely no need for eye tests for children to be anything but a smooth, relaxed process with no negative connotations – no matter what their age. Speak to your optician to arrange a fun, pain free appointment and you can set in place a future of good eye health for your entire family. Author Plate David Paul opticians epitomise everything you want from a local eyewear specialist. Not only do they offer eye tests, they provide an expert service that includes OCT testing and advice on buying your ultimate pair of spectacles. If you’re looking for a place that specialises in bespoke care, including eye tests for children, the team of experienced eyewear specialists and expert optometrists are there to answer all your questions and make your glasses and contact lens buying experience the best it can be.
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