“Doctor, my child is only 6… why does he already need glasses?”
“Will wearing glasses make my child’s eyes weaker?”
These concerns are completely natural and you are not alone.
Today, more children are being advised spectacles at a young age, and the reasons are closely linked to how children live and learn today. One of the biggest changes is screen exposure. Online classes, mobile games, cartoons, and tablets mean children spend hours focusing on near objects. Young eyes are still developing, and continuous near work puts extra strain on them, often leading to short-sightedness (myopia).
Another important factor is reduced outdoor play. Earlier, children spent a lot of time playing outside in natural sunlight, which helps healthy eye development. Now, between schoolwork and screens, outdoor time has reduced drastically. This shift has directly contributed to the rise in eye power among children.
Some parents feel surprised because their child never complained. The reality is that children rarely realize their vision is poor. They adapt. Parents usually notice signs like sitting too close to the television, bringing books very close, frequent headache , eye rubbing , or difficulty seeing the blackboard. Poor concentration or falling grades are sometimes the first clues.
Family history also matters. If parents wear glasses, children have a higher chance of developing refractive errors. Conditions like astigmatism are also common and can cause blurred or distorted vision. If not corrected early, this can affect learning and, in younger children, may even lead to lazy eye.
One of the biggest myths I hear is, “If my child starts wearing glasses now, the power will increase.”
The truth is - glasses do not worsen eyesight. Glasses simply correct vision so the child can see clearly and comfortably. In fact, not wearing prescribed glasses can increase eye strain and affect visual development.
As an eye doctor, my biggest advice to parents is not to wait for complaints. Regular eye check-ups for children are extremely important, especially in the school years.Early detection allows simple correction and prevents long-term problems. Many parents search for the best eye doctor for children or a trusted eye clinic near me when they notice these issues, and timely consultation makes all the difference.
A reassuring message for parents
Your child wearing glasses does not mean something is wrong, it means their vision is being supported correctly. With the right care, good habits, and regular follow-up, children can see clearly, learn confidently, and enjoy a healthy visual future.
Top comments (0)