bea2, I have had that same problem and this is what works for me:
http://www.amazon.com/Needle-Threade...eedle+threader
You can buy these at JoAnn's or probably just about any fabric/quilting/thread store. It is strong and easy to use. Hope you find what works for you.
There are other versions of this just so you know but they are all sturdy and won't break when you try to pull the thicker threads through the eye of the needle.