As the new school year rolls around, parents and kids start thinking about back-to-school essentials. One question often comes up, whether a child is ready to wear contact lenses.
When Can Kids Start Wearing Contacts?
Children as young as eight years old can safely wear contact lenses, but the decision depends on the child’s maturity and ability to handle the responsibilities that come with contact lens care. We highly recommend assessing whether the child can consistently follow hygiene practices and handle the daily tasks that come with maintaining contact lenses.
Benefits of Contacts for Kids
- Improved Vision: Contacts provide better peripheral vision compared to glasses, which can be crucial for sports and other activities.
- Comfort and Convenience: For active kids, contacts don’t slide down the nose or get foggy, making them ideal for sports and play.
- Boost in Confidence: Many kids feel more confident without glasses, which can positively impact their social interactions and self-esteem.
Contact Lens Options for Active Kids
Finding the right contact lenses for your little ones depends on their needs and capabilities. Here are some suitable options:
- Daily Disposable Lenses
- Benefits: These lenses are worn once and discarded, eliminating the need for cleaning solutions and reducing the risk of eye infections.
- Ideal For: Kids who are active in sports and other activities, as they provide a fresh pair every day, ensuring maximum hygiene and convenience.
- Soft Contact Lenses
- Benefits: Soft lenses are comfortable to adapt to, making them a popular choice for children.
- Ideal For: Kids who need to wear lenses for extended periods during the day. They are flexible and move with the eye, providing consistent comfort.
- Rigid Gas Permeable (RGP) Lenses
- Benefits: These lenses offer excellent vision correction and durability.
- Ideal For: Children with specific vision problems that require a more rigid lens. They are less commonly used for everyday activities but can be an option for certain needs.
Getting Your Child Started with Contacts
Starting your child with contact lenses involves a comprehensive eye exam and fitting process. At Precision Eye Doctors, our dedicated team will guide you and your child through every step, ensuring an easy transition from glasses to contacts.
Steps to Getting Contacts:
- Eye Examination: A thorough eye exam to determine the child’s prescription and eye health.
- Lens Fitting: Proper fitting to ensure the lenses sit correctly on the eye and provide clear vision.
- Training: Teaching the child how to insert, remove, and take care of their contact lenses.
Tips for Parents
- Supervision: Initially, supervise your child’s contact lens routine to ensure they are following proper hygiene practices.
- Regular Check-Ups: Schedule regular eye check-ups to monitor the health of your child’s eyes and the fit of the lenses.
- Comfort and Safety: Encourage your child to speak up if they experience any discomfort or issues with their lenses.
Find Your Child’s Perfect Fit with Precision Eye Doctors,
Deciding when your child is ready for contact lenses is a collaborative decision between you, your child, and your eye care professional. With the right guidance and care, contact lenses can be an excellent option for kids, especially those who lead active lifestyles. For personalized advice and a thorough eye examination, request an appointment at your nearest practice here.