Questions and Answers

Question : At what age should a child have an eye exam?
Answer : At Optikid, we perform professional and comprehensive vision tests for children from the age of 8. The test is performed by a team of expert optometrists using methods specifically tailored to the child's age, to identify vision problems as early as possible.

Question: What are the signs that a child may need glasses?
Answer : Common signs include: squinting too close to the TV screen or book, squinting when looking into the distance, frequent eye rubbing, headaches, difficulty reading from the blackboard in class, and a sudden decline in academic achievement. If you have identified any of these signs, it is recommended that you schedule an eye exam as soon as possible.

Question: How long does an eye exam for a child take at Optikid?
Answer: A comprehensive vision exam for a child takes an average of 30-45 minutes, depending on the child's age and specific needs. Our team is adapted to working with children and adjusts the pace of the exam to ensure a pleasant and non-stressful experience.

Question: Do I need to make an appointment in advance for an eye exam?
Answer: Yes, vision tests at optometrists are performed by appointment only. Appointments can be made by phone at any of the branches.
Question: What is myopia and how does it affect children?
Answer: Myopia (nearsightedness) is a condition in which a child sees clearly up close but has difficulty seeing at a distance. In children, myopia tends to worsen with age until vision stabilizes in late adolescence, which is why it is important to treat it and not just correct it.

Question: What treatment methods are available to slow myopia?
Answer: At Optikid we offer two main methods to slow the progression of myopia: special glasses with lenses that slow the progression of nearsightedness, and advanced contact lenses designed for the same purpose. The choice between the methods is made individually, according to the child's age, lifestyle and the optometrist's recommendation.

Question: At what age should myopia control treatment begin?
Answer: The earlier treatment begins, the more effectively the progression of the prescription can be slowed. We recommend getting an exam and consultation as soon as the problem is detected, rather than waiting. Our team will guide you and determine the right timing for your child.

Question: Does myopia treatment eliminate the need for glasses?
Answer: No. The treatment is designed to slow the rate at which the prescription worsens, not to cure myopia. Your child will still use glasses or contact lenses to correct their vision, but with slower progression, which reduces the risk of vision complications in the future.

Answer : Fitting contact lenses for children is possible from a relatively young age, subject to the child's maturity, motivation, and appropriate personal hygiene. The decision is made together with the parents and the optometrist, according to the child's medical needs and ability to safely operate the lenses.

Question: Are contact lenses safe for children?
Answer : Yes, with professional fitting and close supervision. Our team works in collaboration with ophthalmologists, parents, and children to ensure a safe fit, select the most appropriate lens type, and instruct the child and parents regarding proper use and maintenance.

Question: What is the difference between regular contact lenses and myopia correction lenses?
Answer : Regular lenses only correct vision, while lenses designed to slow myopia are specially designed to also slow the rate of progression of myopia, in addition to ongoing vision correction.

Answer: All health fund members can receive a benefit of 600 NIS twice a year when purchasing frames and lenses. For exact details for your health fund, please contact your nearest branch.

Question: How much does an eye exam and glasses for a child cost at Optikid?
Answer: The cost depends on the type of exam.
The eye exam for glasses is free if you purchase glasses (a prescription only, without buying frames and lenses, costs 280 NIS)
Contact lens fitting costs 350 NIS
We recommend calling your nearest branch for an exact quote tailored to your child's needs.

Our Branches
Question: In which cities does Optikid have branches?
Answer: Optikid has four branches:
Tel Aviv (Ramat Aviv, 43 Brodetsky St.),
Haifa (Grand Canyon mall, floor -4),
Rishon LeZion (11 Moshe Levi St.)
and Kfar Saba (119 Tchernichovsky St., Beit Dor).

Question: What are the branches' opening hours?
Answer: Most branches are open Sunday to Thursday, 10:00-20:00
(Rishon LeZion and Kfar Saba 11:00-19:00/20:00),
and Fridays and holiday eves 09:00-14:00. Haifa 10:00-14:00
We recommend confirming exact hours by phone with the relevant branch before arriving.

Question: How can I book an appointment?
Answer: Appointments can be booked by phone at any of our branches.

Question: Since when has Optikid been operating?
Answer: Optikid has been operating since 1995 as an optical chain specializing in children and teenagers.

Question: How is Optikid different from a regular optical store?
Answer: Optikid is an optical chain that specializes exclusively in children – from the colorful design and furniture adapted to children's height, through the largest selection in Israel of designer frames for children, to specific expertise in eye exams, myopia treatment and contact lens fitting for children and teenagers.

In most cases, the adaptation period lasts between a few days and two weeks, depending on the number and type of lenses (e.g. cylinder or bifocal) and the child's habits. It is recommended to start with continuous wearing throughout the day, encourage the child to wear the glasses during regular activities if necessary (studying, looking at screens, reading), and ensure that the frame fits the face precisely to prevent slipping or pressure. If the child complains of headaches, dizziness or persistent blurring for more than a few days, it is worth coming in for a fit check and adjustment of the frame or lenses.
Question: Why choose frames designed specifically for children rather than regular frames?
Answer: Frames designed especially for children are adapted to their unique facial structure (low nose bridge, distance between the eyes), are more durable for activity and play, and are lightweight for greater comfort. At Optikid you will find the largest selection in Israel of frames designed specifically for children.

Question: What happens if my child breaks or damages their glasses?
Answer: Replacing a part due to breakage costs
a temple arm 65 NIS and a front 180 NIS
For children, it is usually recommended to choose light and durable lenses with anti-scratch coating (and anti-reflective coating from age 6-7) to improve sharpness and comfort. For high prescriptions, thinner lenses can be considered to reduce weight and thickness to improve aesthetics and comfort. For particularly active children, lenses with an emphasis on durability and safety can be preferred, according to the optometrist's recommendation and daily needs (study, screens, sports).
It is recommended to wash the lenses in lukewarm water with a drop of mild soap, dry with a clean microfiber cloth, and avoid wiping dry with a shirt/tissue that may scratch. Store the glasses in a hard case when not in use, and avoid placing them with the lenses facing down. In the event of loosening screws, frame curvature, or discomfort, it is advisable to have them adjusted professionally to prevent worsening and damage to the lenses.
In most cases, it is recommended to have an eye exam once a year, depending on the child's age, family history, and previous findings. Children who wear glasses or are under observation (e.g., rapid number changes) are usually recommended to have more frequent checkups as directed by their optometrist. A periodic exam helps identify changes in prescription, difficulty focusing, or eye strain before they affect functioning in kindergarten/school.
It is recommended to bring a current prescription (if available), the child's previous glasses, and any relevant medical information (e.g. eye care/strabismus/lazy eye). If the child is young or sensitive, you can bring a small toy or item that calms them down - this helps with the fitting process. The Optikid team will guide you from the measurement stage to choosing a frame and advice on daily fitting.
The turnaround time varies depending on the type of lens and prescription. Glasses with standard lenses are sometimes available within a few business days, while high prescriptions, special lenses or special coatings may take longer. When you order, we will provide an accurate time estimate and update you if there is a change, so you can prepare accordingly.