Independent opticians in Cranbrook for nearly 30 years

Mon–Fri 9am–5pm · Sat 9am–1:30pm

Children’s eye tests in Cranbrook

At The Hammond Optical Practice, we love looking after children’s eyes. From early childhood through to the teenage years, regular eye tests play an important role in supporting learning, confidence and long-term eye health.

We aim to make every visit relaxed and friendly, so children feel comfortable and parents feel reassured.

A woman with red hair undergoing an eye examination using a slit lamp at an optical clinic, with the examiner focusing on her right eye using a lens and light.
A young woman with red hair and glasses tries on eyeglass frames in an optical shop while a salesperson in a leopard print dress watches and smiles, with shelves of eyeglasses in the background.

Eyecare for children of all ages

Children don’t always realise or tell you if they’re struggling to see. Eye tests help us spot issues early, whether that’s difficulty seeing the board at school, headaches, tired eyes or changes in vision.

Our children’s eye tests are carried out by experienced optometrists who take time to explain everything in a calm, age-appropriate way. There is no rushing, and parents are welcome to ask questions at any point.  

Myopia (short-sightedness) in children

Myopia, also known as short-sightedness, is becoming more common in children. It usually means distance vision becomes blurred and can progress as a child grows.

Early detection is important. During your child’s eye test, we carefully monitor how their eyes are developing and discuss options if myopia is present. In some cases, myopia management contact lenses may be suitable, which are designed to help slow its progression.

We’ll always explain your options clearly and are available for any questions you may have.

An older man with glasses looking at a screen attached to an optical imaging device displaying an eye scan that is in the process of optimizing, with another monitor showing a cross-sectional scan image.

Children’s glasses that fit and feel right

If your child needs glasses, we help make choosing them a positive experience. We offer a range of durable, comfortable and stylish frames designed especially for children, including Tomato Glasses.

These frames are lightweight, flexible and designed to stay in place, perfect for busy, active children. Our dispensing opticians take great care to ensure a proper fit; comfort and lenses suited to your child’s needs.

NHS eye tests and glasses for children

Children under 16, and those under 19 in full-time education, are entitled to NHS eye tests. If glasses are needed, NHS optical vouchers are also available to help towards the cost of frames and lenses.

We are happy to explain how NHS support works and help you make the most of what is available.

Person with red hair using a Henson 9000 eye testing machine by Elektron Technology, sitting at a table with informational brochures about earwax removal and hearing health.
Kind words

What our patients say

We are proud of the kind feedback our patients leave and the trust they place in us. Many new patients come to us through recommendations, and we believe this reflects our commitment to personal, high-quality care.

★★★★★
“An excellent experience today at Hammond Optical. I have never had such personal, professional attention when having my eyes tested over many years. I went after being recommended to the practice and now I am very happy to recommend it to others.”
L
Liz Furner
Google review
★★★★★
“Fantastic professional service from the whole team at Hammond Optical Practice. My family and I have been seeing Mark for over 17 years. Absolutely brilliant.”
S
Sandeep Sharma
Google review
★★★★★
“Lovely family run practice. My daughter has additional needs and Mark was great with her, and staff were so helpful for both of us getting glasses.”
V
Victoria Pearson
Google review
★★★★★
“I hadn't been for an eye check up in a while and this was a very good experience, very thorough, professional and friendly. Much preferred to my previous visit to a high street chain, which was rather impersonal.”
M
Mark David
Google review
★★★★★
“All my 3 children have been so looked after here with very thorough eye check ups. I also have my check up here too and cannot fault them — extremely kind and thorough and cannot recommend Mark enough!”
H
Helen Pritchard
Google review
★★★★★
“I have been going to Hammond Optical Practice since it first opened and would not trust anyone else. A very friendly, family run business that provides extremely thorough eye examinations, a great choice of frames and fabulous fitting.”
M
Martin Shellaker
Google review
★★★★★
“As always my recent optician’s appointment was professional and friendly — I couldn’t recommend a better place to go for all eyesight related matters! :)”
S
Shalaka Vazé
Google review
★★★★★
“Always really friendly and helpful. Great selection of frames. Free lens cleaner refills for life.”
G
Gloria Everett
Google review
Read all our Google reviews
★★★★★
Finding us

On the High Street, right in town

You’ll find The Hammond Optical Practice in the heart of Cranbrook, making us easy to reach for patients in the town and surrounding areas.

If you’re unsure how to find us or have any questions before your visit, our friendly reception team is always happy to help.

Address

High Street, Cranbrook, TN17 3RB

Telephone

01580 715008

Email

info@hammondoptical.co.uk

Opening hours

Mon – Fri · 9am – 5pm

Sat · 9am – 1:30pm

Book your appointment

Supporting your child’s vision, together

We believe children’s eyecare should feel supportive, clear and never overwhelming. Our aim is to look after your child’s eyes as they grow, while keeping parents fully informed and involved.

If you have any concerns about your child’s vision, or it’s time for their next eye test, we’re here to help.

Abstract eye made of various sizes of purple circles with a small green circle inside, and three green curved lines to the left resembling eyelashes or waves.
See you soon!