The bell rings, the backpack fills with books, and the glasses follow the child from the classroom to home. Taking care of them doesn't have to become another difficult chore. A few small habits are enough to help them find their place in everyday life.
At KidOptic, we suggest starting with three simple things: a protective case, a clean microfiber cloth, and a designated spot in the backpack. Here are seven ideas you can try together with your child.
1. Prepare the case the night before
Put the case and the cloth in the same compartment of the school bag every day. Choose an easily accessible spot where they won't be crushed by heavy books or a water bottle. A small label with the child's name inside the case can help if it’s forgotten in the classroom.
2. Do a quick check before leaving
Are the lenses clean? Do the temples open smoothly? Does the frame sit as usual? There is no need to look for perfection. The goal is to spot anything that has changed: a loose screw, a bent temple, or glasses that suddenly slide down.
If the fit isn't right, don't try to bend the frame yourself. Ask an optician to check it. For more on fit, read our guide to choosing children's glasses.
3. Clean the lenses gently
For daily care, follow the instructions from the lens manufacturer and your optician. If there is dust or grit, rinse first with lukewarm running water. Use a proper glasses cleaner and a clean microfiber cloth, without applying heavy pressure. Avoid using your sleeve or shirt to wipe them, and wash the cloth regularly without fabric softener.
Source for cleaning instructions: ZEISS — glasses care and cleaning.
4. "When I take them off, I put them in the case"
This short phrase is easier for a child to remember than a long list of prohibitions. Show them how to put on and take off their glasses by holding them with both hands. When they need to remove them, their place is in the case — not loose inside the bag or under a notebook.
5. Agree on what happens at break time and during gym class
Talk with your child and their teacher about where the glasses are kept when removed and who can help if they fall or break. For sports activities, ask your optician for guidance on the right solution depending on the sport. Taking care of the frame does not change the instructions provided by the health professional on when the child should wear their glasses.
6. After an accident, tell an adult first
If the frame gets bent or breaks, the child doesn't need to try to fix it in the classroom. Agree that they will inform the teacher and you. Keep the glasses and any pieces in the case so that the optician can examine them. Avoid makeshift repairs with glue.
7. Give your child a small role of their own
For a younger child, it is enough to remember where the case is. An older child can check if they have the cloth with them and tell you when something doesn't fit well. Adjust the routine to their age and encourage their efforts, without letting every scratch become a reason for reprimand.
The quick pre-school checklist
- Clean glasses, ready for the day.
- Protective case in its designated spot.
- Clean microfiber cloth.
- The child knows who to inform if they need help.
Personal care, online and in our stores
Behind KidOptic is the family of The Optical Center Mantzouratos. If you need help with the fit or care of your child's glasses, contact us or find our two physical stores in Mavili and Victoria.
Also discover our children's frames for boys and children's frames for girls, with help in choosing the right pair.
