patching

Eye Patches


“Why does my child need to wear an eye patch?”

Children may need to wear an eye patch for various reasons, and it is often prescribed by an Ophthalmologist or Optometrist as part of a vision treatment plan. The primary purpose of an eye patch is to address certain visual conditions and encourage the development of better vision in the affected eye. Here are some common reasons why kids may need to wear an eye patch:

  • Amblyopia (Lazy Eye)

    Amblyopia is a condition where one eye has weaker vision than the other. To stimulate the weaker eye and encourage visual development, an eye patch may be recommended. By covering the stronger eye, the brain is forced to rely more on the weaker eye, helping to improve its strength and function over time.

  • Strabismus (Crossed or Misaligned Eyes)

    Strabismus occurs when the eyes do not align properly. Wearing an eye patch over the stronger eye may help strengthen the muscles of the misaligned eye, promoting better alignment and coordination between the two eyes.

  • Refractive Errors

    Sometimes, children may have a significant difference in prescription between their two eyes. In such cases, an eye patch may be used to correct the imbalance and promote equal vision development in both eyes.

  • Visual Development Issues

    Eye patches can also be used to address issues related to visual development in children. These patches are often part of a broader treatment plan aimed at enhancing visual acuity and depth perception.

  • Treatment Following Eye Surgery

    In certain cases, such as after eye surgery, wearing an eye patch may be necessary for protection and healing. It helps shield the eye from external factors and ensures a smooth recovery process.

It's important to note that the decision to prescribe an eye patch is based on a thorough eye examination conducted by an eye care professional. The goal is to provide the child with the best possible vision and ensure the healthy development of their visual system. Parents should closely follow the eye care professional's recommendations and monitor their child's progress during the patching period. While it might seem challenging at the time, patching can be very effective in correcting some visual conditions, which is very beneficial for your child's eyes for their whole life. 

We are thrilled to announce Patch Kids eye patches are now available at Roberts & Brown Opticians! This exciting addition to our eye patch selection brings a local vendor into our optical, ensuring that our little ones receive the best options when it comes to eyepatches with a lot of comfort and style.

At Roberts & Brown Opticians, we understand the importance of providing comprehensive eye care solutions for our young patients requiring patching to strengthen their eyes to their full potential. We are excited to partner with Patch Kids, a local Vancouver brand that shares our commitment to quality, comfort and fun when it comes to patching.to offer an innovative solution for children in need of eye patches due to various visual conditions.

As a small business it is important to work with fellow small businesses in our community. Patch Kids is a homegrown brand with roots deeply embedded in our local culture and values. The creators of Patch Kids are passionate parents who, out of a need to make patching fun for their own 2.5 year old, successfully created a product that makes a positive impact on the lives of children facing visual challenges. Roberts & Brown Opticians is the destination for kids eyewear in Vancouver and the surrounding lower mainland and we understand and see first hand the benefits that patching can achieve in strengthening and in many cases correcting visual imbalances. We are honored to support their mission.

Patch Kids is not just a brand; it's a movement dedicated to making a difference in the lives of children who are prescribed patching. We understand that wearing an eye patch can be a challenging experience for young ones (and you), both physically and emotionally. With this in mind, we have a large selection of eye patches that go beyond functionality – they are colorful, comfortable, and crafted with care.

Patch Kids eye patches are made from high-quality materials, ensuring a soft and gentle touch on delicate skin. The patches come in a variety of fun and vibrant genderless designs and multiple sizes. Transforming what is a medical necessity into a personalized accessory that kids can proudly wear. This thoughtful approach helps children embrace the patch as a positive and empowering part of their daily routine.

Choosing Patch Kids at Roberts & Brown Opticians means choosing a local business that cares deeply about your child's visual wellbeing. Our team is dedicated to providing personalized and compassionate eye care services, and by introducing Patch Kids eye patches, we are taking a step further in ensuring that even the youngest members of our community feel supported in their journey towards healthy vision.

Whether your child needs an eye patch for amblyopia, strabismus, or any other visual condition, you can trust Roberts & Brown Opticians to provide the largest selection of eye patches to help your child feel comfortable and confident with their new eye patch.