As an expectant parent, you envision countless possibilities for your future child. Most importantly, you hope for a healthy baby—that’s a given. But let’s be real, you also have a vision of what your child will look like. You might wish they inherit your sister’s sparkling blue eyes, pray they dodge your uncle’s prominent nose, and if we’re honest, you secretly hope they resemble you (or at least your side of the family).
Unless there’s a strong family history of vision issues or some other significant factor, the thought of your baby needing glasses probably doesn’t even cross your mind. But, surprise! It can happen. The grown-up part of you might accept the news with a smile, maybe cracking a joke, but inside, a part of you is likely shouting, “No way! Not my baby!”
It’s not that you lack perspective; you understand that this diagnosis is relatively minor in the grand scheme of life. In many ways, you’re fortunate. Still, the prospect of your child wearing glasses feels like just that little extra challenge—maybe only adding 1% more difficulty to her life, but that’s 1% too much for your liking.
You could be the most open-minded person, advocating that everyone is equal regardless of appearance or beliefs, yet it’s hard not to cringe when you see your beautiful child in those chunky, nerdy frames.
Here’s a hard truth to swallow: I wish my kids didn’t have to wear glasses. Part of that sentiment comes from the fact that my daughter needs prescription goggles for swimming, and my son seems to misplace his glasses every few days. But if I’m being completely honest, it’s mainly because I don’t like how their adorable faces are partially hidden behind even the most stylish frames.
Then there’s the unsolicited commentary from strangers. For any parent, the thought of someone saying something hurtful to your child is agonizing, but when it’s about something you’re already insecure about, it feels like a punch to the gut.
So, do I love the fact that my kids wear glasses? Absolutely not. Have I come to terms with it? Yes, I’ve accepted their adorable, very farsighted little eyes—all eight of them!
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Summary:
As a parent, discovering that your baby needs glasses can be a bittersweet experience. While you may wish they didn’t have to wear them, it’s essential to accept the situation and support your child as they navigate this new challenge, all while keeping a sense of humor about it.