When it comes to vision correction, many parents default to eyeglasses for their children. However, contact lenses for kids offer a range of benefits, particularly when it comes to safety and convenience, especially for active children.
At Galbrecht Eyecare in Olathe, we've created a guide to help parents understand the advantages of contacts for kids, how to determine if your child is ready for contacts, and when they might need them.
Can Kids Wear Contacts? What Parents Need to Know
Determining if your child is ready for contact lenses primarily lies on their maturity and responsibility. It's important to evaluate whether your child has the ability to strictly maintain good hygiene, follow instructions, and handle the lenses with care. This is crucial for safe and effective contact lens use.
Additionally, factor in their age to see if they're ready for contact lens use. Although there is no strict age limit, most eye care professionals suggest that children can start wearing contact lenses around 8-12 years old.
Your child's eye health is a critical factor. A kids' eye doctor will assess if your child’s eyes are suitable for contacts and if there are any conditions that might complicate lens wear.
Why Consider Contact Lenses for Kids?
Your child may benefit from contact lenses if
- They Lead An Active Lifestyle: Children that are heavily involved in sports or other physical activities can enjoy a safer and more practical option compared to glasses.
- Special Vision Needs: Those with specific vision issues that are better corrected with contact lenses may benefit from making the switch to contacts. This includes those with high prescriptions or certain hard-to-fit eye conditions, like dry eyes, astigmatism, and irregularly shaped corneas.
- Self-Esteem and Social Comfort: If your child feels self-conscious about wearing glasses, contact lenses can help boost their confidence and comfort in social situations.
Steps to Transitioning Kids to Contact Lenses
- Consult with a Kids Eye Doctor Near You: Schedule an appointment for a contact lenses eye exam to discuss whether contact lenses are a good option for your child. They will perform a comprehensive eye exam and provide guidance.
- Educate Your Child: Ensure your child understands the importance of proper lens care and hygiene. Teach them how to clean and store their lenses correctly.
- Start with Daily Disposables: Daily disposable lenses are often recommended for children because they eliminate the need for cleaning and storage, reducing the risk of infections.
- Regular Follow-Ups: Regular eye exams for kids are essential to ensure your child’s eyes remain healthy and the lenses are fitting well.
Schedule A Contact Lens Exam & Fitting
Consult with our pediatric eye care professional at Galbrecht Eyecare in Olathe for children's contact lenses near you.
