Questions? Ask Buddy.
Everything parents ask about kids' glasses, lenses, sizing, and shipping — answered.
prescription
How do I read my child’s eye prescription?
When your child needs glasses, the doctor will give you a prescription that might look confusing at first, but it’s easy to understand once you know the basics:
① Rows for each eye: The first row is for the right eye (OD) and the second row is for the left eye (OS).
② SPH, CYL, and Axis: SPH shows if your child is nearsighted (-) or farsighted (+); CYL and Axis work together to correct astigmatism.
③ ADD: Sometimes you’ll see ADD, which is the extra reading power for bifocal or progressive lenses (less common in children).
④ PD (Pupillary Distance): This is the distance between your child’s pupils. It ensures the lenses are centered correctly. If it’s missing, ask the doctor or measure it at home.
Tip: Children’s vision can change quickly, so follow your doctor’s advice on when to update the prescription and keep a copy for future checkups.
What is my child’s pupillary distance (PD) and how do I get it?
Your child’s pupillary distance (PD) is the measurement of the distance between the centers of their pupils. It helps ensure the lenses line up correctly in the frames for clear vision. ① You can ask the eye doctor to measure it during the eye exam. ② Or you can click here to get it at home
What if my child has astigmatism?
Astigmatism is very common, even in children, and it simply means the shape of the eye causes light to focus unevenly. ① If your child’s prescription (Rx) includes CYL and Axis values, that means they have astigmatism. ② Don’t worry—glasses can be made to correct it, helping your child see clearly and comfortably.
Do you offer bifocal or progressive lenses for kids?
Yes! We can provide both bifocal and progressive lenses if your child needs them. ① If your child’s prescription (Rx) includes ADD or NV-ADD, it means extra reading power is required. ② You can choose either lined bifocals (with a visible reading segment) or unlined progressive lenses (which look like regular glasses but have multiple focal points).
Tip: These options are less common in children, so be sure to confirm with your child’s eye doctor if they’re the best choice.
Can you fill prescriptions with prism corrections for kids?
Yes! We can fill prescriptions with prism correction, but only in single-vision lenses. Here’s how it works:
① When you enter your child’s prescription during the order process, first fill in the SPH, CYL, and Axis numbers for each eye.
② Then click “Yes” under Prism Values.
③ Next, enter the Prism Horizontal (Base In/Base Out) and Prism Vertical (Base Up/Base Down) values in diopters, and select the correct direction for each eye according to your doctor’s prescription.
Tip: Prism corrections are used to help with eye alignment or double vision. Always double-check with your child’s prescription
How do I order non-prescription glasses for kids?
It’s super easy to order non-prescription (Non-Rx) glasses for your child:
① Click the Order Glasses button on the frame you like.
② In the Prescription Type drop-down menu, select Non-Prescription.
③ During checkout, you can upgrade the lenses by turning them into sunglasses or adding blue light blocking lenses to help protect your child’s eyes from screen time.
Tip: Non-prescription glasses are perfect if your child doesn’t need vision correction but you still want to add eye protection or style!
What if my child’s prescription has expired?
Children’s vision can change quickly as they grow, so it’s important to keep their prescription up to date.
① Follow your child’s eye doctor’s recommendation on when to schedule the next exam.
② If you notice any changes in your child’s vision (squinting, frequent headaches, holding books too close, etc.), schedule an eye exam as soon as possible—even if it’s before the recommended time.
Tip: Keeping prescriptions current ensures your child always has the clearest, most comfortable vision possible.
lens
What are High-index lenses for kids?
High-index lenses are thinner, lighter lenses for stronger prescriptions. In our lens system, 1.61 is the everyday value choice, 1.67 is slimmer for stronger Rx, and 1.74 is the thinnest option for very strong Rx.
1.61: SPH -6.00 to +6.00, CYL -2.00 to +2.00. Abbe ~41.
1.67: SPH -10.00 to +8.00, CYL -4.00 to +4.00. Abbe ~32.
1.74: SPH -15.00 to +10.00, CYL -6.00 to +6.00. Abbe ~31.
What are polycarbonate lenses for kids?
Polycarbonate is a lightweight, impact-resistant kids lens material. It is strong for daily wear, though its Abbe value is lower, so some edge color can be more noticeable than Trivex or 1.61 high-index.
Standard Polycarbonate: SPH -3.00 to +3.00, CYL -1.00 to +1.00.
Advanced Polycarbonate: SPH -6.00 to +4.00, CYL -2.00 to +2.00.
Complex Polycarbonate: SPH -15.00 to +8.00, CYL -6.00 to +6.00. Abbe ~30.
What are Trivex lenses for kids?
Trivex is light, impact-resistant, and optically crisp, with a higher Abbe value than polycarbonate. It is a good choice when comfort and clarity matter.
Standard Trivex: SPH -6.00 to +4.00, CYL -2.00 to +2.00.
Advanced Trivex: SPH -10.00 to +8.00, CYL -4.00 to +4.00. Index 1.53, Abbe ~43-45.
What do the Lens Index numbers mean for kids’ glasses?
The index number shows how strongly a lens material bends light. A higher index can make stronger prescriptions thinner, but thinner is not always clearer.
For many kids, 1.61 high-index is the sweet spot of clarity, toughness, and value. Very strong prescriptions may need 1.67 or 1.74 to keep the lens slimmer.
How do I get thinner lenses for kids’ glasses?
Choose the material tier that fits your child’s SPH and CYL range. Higher-index lenses are thinner, but the best choice also depends on clarity, durability, frame size, and whether you choose sun or photochromic lenses.
What are Clear Lenses?
Clear lenses are regular everyday lenses with no tint. Choose them for normal indoor and outdoor wear when your child does not need blue-light, photochromic, or sunglass lenses.
What are Blue Light lenses for kids?
Blue Light lenses add blue-light filtering for school, tablets, computers, and other screens. They can be made with compatible prescription and non-prescription lens choices.
What are photochromic lenses for kids?
Photochromic lenses turn gray outdoors in sunlight and become clear again indoors. They are useful when a child moves between classroom, home, and outdoor play.
What are Classic Tint lenses?
Classic Tint lenses are solid-color sunglass lenses for everyday sun protection. Common choices include gray, brown/tea, and green.
What are Gradient Tint lenses?
Gradient Tint lenses are darker at the top and lighter toward the bottom. Available styles include gray gradient, brown gradient, rose/red gradient, and blue/purple gradient.
What are mirrored lenses for kids?
Mirrored lenses add a reflective sun coating for a brighter, sportier look. Color choices include silver, blue, gold, green, red/pink, purple, and orange.
What are polarized lenses for kids?
Polarized lenses reduce glare from roads, water, snow, and other reflective surfaces. They are a strong outdoor choice for bright sun and active play. Available choices include polarized gray, polarized brown, and polarized green.
What are Progressive lenses for kids?
Progressive lenses are no-line multifocal lenses for prescriptions with ADD. They blend distance, intermediate, and near vision in one lens.
What are Bifocal lenses for kids?
Bifocal lenses are multifocal lenses with a visible near-vision segment. Choose this when the prescription specifically asks for bifocal or ADD support.
What are Prescription Sunglasses Lenses for Kids?
Prescription sunglasses combine vision correction with sun protection. Depending on the prescription and material, you can choose classic tint, gradient tint, mirrored, or polarized sun lenses.
eyeglass frame
What frame style is best for my face shape?
For kids, the best frame style is simply the one they like and feel comfortable wearing! More important than face shape is:
① Proper fit: The frames should be the right size for your child’s face so they stay in place and don’t slip.
② Durable, safe materials: Choose lightweight, impact-resistant materials that can handle everyday play and activity.
③ Comfort: Frames should feel good on the nose and ears so your child is happy to wear them all day.
What frame material is right for kids?
When choosing a frame material for children, focus on safety, comfort, and durability:
① Lightweight: Pick frames that are light and comfortable for all-day wear.
② Durable & flexible: Plastic frames are usually more durable and flexible—perfect for active kids. Flexible frames can better handle drops and rough use.
③ Colorful & fun: Plastic frames also come in more colors, which makes it easier for kids to find a style they love.
④ Safe materials: Hypoallergenic options like stainless steel, titanium, or acetate are great choices, especially if your child has sensitive skin.
Tip: Plastic or flexible frames are generally the best choice for children because they combine comfort, safety, and durability.
Do the frames come in different sizes for kids?
Yes, but not every style has multiple sizes. ① Each frame’s size information is listed in the product description. ② Be sure to choose the size that fits your child’s face comfortably—frames that are too big or too small can slip or pinch.
Tip: Use the size filter when browsing to quickly find frames designed for your child’s age and face size.
What do the numbers printed on my child’s frame mean?
The numbers printed on the inside of the temple arm (the part that goes behind your child’s ear) show the frame’s size measurements:
If the number is 52 -17 -135,it means Lens width=52mm ,Bridge width=17mm ,Temple arm length=135mm
① Lens width: The horizontal width of one lens in millimeters.
② Bridge width: The distance between the two lenses (the nose bridge).
③ Temple arm length: The length of the arm that goes behind the ear, usually a 3-digit number.
What can I do if my child’s frames don’t fit perfectly?
New glasses sometimes need small adjustments to fit just right. ① The best option is to take them to an optician, who can make quick and safe tweaks for your child’s comfort. ② If that’s not possible, you can follow our How to Adjust Your Glasses guide at home for simple fixes.
Sunglasses
What frames can be ordered as sunglasses for kids?
Most of our kids’ frames can be ordered as sunglasses, except for a few specialty sports or goggle frames. If you’re looking for sunglasses, please visit this page to see all the available options.
Tip: You can also choose polarized or mirrored lenses when customizing the sunglasses for extra eye protection and style.
Can I order prescription sunglasses for kids?
Yes! Most of our kids’ prescription glasses can be made into prescription sunglasses. ① When ordering, simply select a standard or gradient lens tint, or choose from our glare-reducing polarized lens options. ② These options give your child the same vision correction plus full sun protection in one pair.
Tip: Prescription sunglasses are perfect for kids who spend a lot of time outdoors—they protect their eyes from UV rays while keeping their vision clear.
What is the difference between Photochromic and Polarized lenses for kids?
Photochromic and polarized lenses both protect your child’s eyes, but they work differently:
① Photochromic lenses: These lenses automatically darken when your child is outdoors or exposed to UV light, then return to clear indoors. They’re great for kids who move frequently between inside and outside.
② Polarized lenses: These are permanent sunglasses lenses that don’t change color. They’re excellent at cutting glare from reflective surfaces like water, snow, or roads—perfect for outdoor play or sports.
Tip: If your child needs all-day versatility, photochromic lenses are a great choice. If they spend lots of time outdoors in bright conditions, polarized lenses are best for glare reduction.
What’s the difference between polarized lenses and dark tints for kids? Which is better?
Polarized lenses and dark tints both help with bright light, but they work differently:
① Polarized lenses: Reduce glare and light intensity, especially from reflective surfaces like water, snow, and sand. They’re great for outdoor play, sports, or family trips because they help kids see more clearly and comfortably in bright sunlight.
② Dark tints: Simply reduce the overall brightness but do not cut glare. One advantage is that dark tints work better with digital screens outdoors, as polarized lenses can sometimes make screens harder to see.
Tip: For most kids, polarized lenses are the better all-around choice for outdoor use because they improve clarity and eye comfort. Dark tints are a good option if your child frequently uses tablets or other screens outside.
Can I get kids’ sunglasses with thin lenses?
Yes! ① If you’re ordering prescription sunglasses for your child, you can choose the recommended lens index for their prescription to keep the lenses thin and lightweight. ② If you’re ordering non-prescription sunglasses, the lenses will already be thin.
What is the best tint color for kids’ sunglasses?
The best tint color depends on your child’s needs and where they’ll wear the sunglasses:
① Gray: Great all-purpose tint that reduces brightness without distorting colors—perfect for everyday outdoor use.
② Brown/Amber: Enhances contrast and depth perception, ideal for sports or variable light conditions.
③ Green: Offers balanced color perception and good glare reduction, great for general outdoor activities.
Tip: For most kids, gray or brown tints work best. If your child spends a lot of time in bright sun or playing sports, pair the tint with polarized lenses for maximum glare protection.
Can I order clip-ons for any kids’ frame?
Clip-ons can be ordered for most kids’ eyeglass frames, but not all. To check availability, visit the product page of the frame you’re interested in—if clip-ons are available, you’ll see the option listed there.
Why do polarized lenses look distorted when my child looks at screens?
When your child looks at LED screens through polarized lenses—especially outdoors in bright sunlight—they might notice a “pinching” or uneven effect on the screen. ① This is a normal phenomenon with polarized lenses, not a defect in the lens or coating. ② It won’t affect your child’s ability to see clearly in everyday use, only when viewing certain screens.
Tip: Polycarbonate lenses are slightly more prone to this effect, but it usually becomes less noticeable as your child wears their glasses more often.
Do kids need polarized lenses for their sunglasses?
Polarized lenses are a great option for children because they reduce glare and improve visual clarity. ① They’re especially helpful for kids who spend a lot of time outdoors—at the beach, playing sports, near water, or in snowy conditions. ② By cutting harsh reflections, polarized lenses make it easier and more comfortable for kids to see in bright sunlight.
Tip: If your child is active outdoors, polarized lenses are one of the best ways to protect their eyes and reduce squinting.
Returns & Exchanges
What is your return/exchange policy?
Contact us within 30 days of delivery. Defective or incorrect glasses, shipping damage, and eligible prescription discomfort when the correct prescription was provided receive 100% coverage. Fit, color, size, style, customer-entered ordering mistakes, and normal wear receive 50% coverage through a refund or store credit. Review our Returns & Exchanges policy for complete details.
How long do I have to exchange or return an item?
Our 30-Day No-Risk Guarantee gives you 30 days from delivery to contact us about a return or exchange. The coverage and solution depend on what happened.
Manufacturing defects may be covered for 12 months from delivery. Warranty items can be repaired or replaced, but not refunded.
Do I have to pay shipping if I return or exchange something?
For 100% covered issues, we cover return shipping when a return is required. Continental U.S. exchanges include a prepaid label.
For a preference-based refund using our prepaid label, $9 is deducted from the refund.
Customers in Alaska, Hawaii, U.S. territories, APO/FPO addresses, and outside the U.S. pay return shipping for preference-based returns.
Can I cancel my order?
Orders canceled within 24 hours qualify for a 100% refund. After 24 hours, custom lenses may already be in production, so we must check production status before confirming the refund and eligible amount.
Guarantees & Warranties
Is the damage to my glasses covered under your warranty?
If your glasses broke because of a factory defect, then yes — that’s covered by our warranty!
But if the damage was caused by accidents or wear and tear, it’s not covered.
You can check the chart on our Frame & Lens Guarantees page to see if your glasses qualify.
Just a heads-up: Warranty items can only be repaired or replaced, not refunded.
How long does your warranty last?
You’re covered for 12 months starting from the day your glasses arrive.
If there's a problem caused by how they were made, we’ll take care of it!
What’s the 30-Day Lens Guarantee?
If the correct prescription was provided and the finished lenses do not match it or cause eligible prescription discomfort, contact us within 30 days for 100% coverage. We can replace the lenses using the same lens type and options at no cost, issue a full refund, or provide store credit based on the case.
If the wrong prescription or lens option was entered when ordering, the case qualifies for 50% coverage through a refund or store credit.
If your eye doctor changes the prescription within 30 days, eligible replacement lenses may be made at no cost. Eligible doctor changes during days 31-90 may receive replacement lenses at half price.
Shipping & Order Status
How long will it take to get my glasses or contacts?
🕶 All U.S. orders arrive in 10-15 business days. We double-check every pair to make sure it's perfect. If there's a delay (like a backorder or extra inspection), don't worry — we'll email you at hi@eyebuddykids.com to let you know!
How will I know if my item is on backorder?
If your item is on backorder, we’ll send you an email to let you know.
📬 You’ll also get a call from our team to ask what you’d like to do next — wait, switch, or cancel.
Have questions? Just email us at hi@eyebuddykids.com anytime!
What if I don’t get my order after it ships?
If your order says “shipped” but nothing shows up, don’t worry — just let us know within 30 days of getting your shipping email.
📦 If we don’t hear from you in that time, we may not be able to help with lost packages.
Need help? Email us at hi@eyebuddykids.com and we’ll jump in to check!
Adjusting Your Frames
How do I adjust my glasses so they fit better?
We don’t recommend adjusting your glasses yourself — bending them too much could break the frame or lenses! 😬
Before we ship them out, we set them up for a standard fit.
If they still feel a little loose, slidey, or crooked, you can take them to a local optical store — most places will adjust them for free!
Need help finding one? Just email us at hi@eyebuddykids.com and we’ll help out!
Still stuck?
Buddy's around and happy to help you find the perfect pair or sort out a question. Or email us at hi@eyebuddykids.com.