This is a question most parents ask, especially when their child is an infant or toddler. The best answer is that most young children who really need glasses will wear them happily because they do make a difference in their vision. Here are a few ideas to help get your child to wear glasses Start by having your child wear glasses for short periods during enjoyable activities, when your child will be having so much fun that he or she will forget about them. Use the glasses as part of reward times, such as when your child is watching his or her favorite video. Choose a time when your child is rested and in a good mood to start requiring the glasses. If your child takes his or her glasses off, be sure you put them back on in a firm but loving manner. If your child learns that he or she has control over wearing the glasses, you may lose the battle. You do not want taking off the glasses to be an attention-getting tool. Check the fit of the glasses. Stop by the optical shop if the frame loosens. As the child grows, the glasses may become tight or uncomfortable. Glasses that are poorly fitted can easily slip and slide down, and they then become useless.

Be positive. Parents’ and grandparents’ attitude can influence a child more than you think. Make glasses “cool” for your child: point out pictures of sports stars or entertainers who wear glasses. For very young children, “being just like mommy or nana” may be what counts. Compliment your child for remembering to wear his or her glasses Give your child some say in selecting the frame. Select three or four different frames that are acceptable to you, and then let the child pick the one he or she likes best. Make the glasses a part of the child’s daily routine. Put them on in the morning as your child is getting dressed and remove them before naps and bedtime. Enlist the teachers help by telling them your child’s schedule for wearing glasses.