Thanks to recent advancements in eye care, contact lenses have become a popular and practical choice for many kids and teens. But is it safe for children to wear contact lenses? Absolutely! However, not every child is ready to handle the responsibility of contact lens care. Here are some factors to consider when deciding if contact lenses are right for your child.
The right age for contact lenses
There isn’t a specific age when children should start wearing contact lenses. It depends on how mature your child is, their responsibility level, and their vision needs. Generally, children as young as eight can safely wear contact lenses if they can handle the responsibilities that come with them. It’s important to make sure they can take care of their lenses properly and keep their eyes healthy.
Good hygiene and proper lens care are crucial to prevent infections and other eye problems. Here are some signs that your child might be ready for contact lenses:
- They consistently wash their hands before touching their eyes.
- They can follow instructions and routines without constant reminders.
- They’re interested in learning about the responsibilities of wearing contact lenses.
Benefits of contact lenses for children
1. Better vision
Contact lenses provide a wider field of view than glasses, making them a great option for sports and playing outdoors. Glasses can sometimes obstruct peripheral vision, but contact lenses move with your eyes, giving your child a more natural and complete visual experience. This can be particularly beneficial in sports, where awareness of the surroundings is crucial.
2. Greater confidence
Many children feel more confident and comfortable without glasses, especially when they’re on the playground or playing sports. Wearing glasses can sometimes make kids feel self-conscious, but with contact lenses, they can enjoy their activities without worrying about their appearance. It can help children feel more comfortable in social situations by boosting their self-esteem.
3. Convenience
Unlike glasses, contact lenses won’t fog up, get dirty, or slip off, making them convenient for everyday activities. Children who participate in sports or other physical activities will appreciate the freedom contact lenses offer. They won’t have to worry about their glasses falling off or getting broken.
4. Myopia management
Myopia management contact lenses, like MiSight® 1-day soft contact lenses and Paragon CRT® ortho-k lenses offered at the Eyecare Center of Ken Caryl, are designed to help slow down or stop the progression of myopia (nearsightedness) in children. Higher levels of myopia can increase your child’s risk of eye issues later in life, such as glaucoma, cataracts, and retinal detachment. Myopia management lenses are designed to not only correct vision but also address the underlying issues that cause myopia to worsen over time. This proactive approach can help protect your child’s vision for the future.
5. Easier to use with safety gear
If your child plays sports that require safety gear, contact lenses are a more practical option. Helmets, goggles, and other protective equipment can be cumbersome when worn with glasses. Contact lenses eliminate this issue, making it easier for kids to stay safe while they play.
Safety and eye health
Safety is always the top priority when it comes to your child’s eyes. Regular pediatric eye exams at the Eyecare Center of Ken Caryl ensure their contact lenses fit well and don’t cause any problems. Keep an eye out for any signs of discomfort or irritation and address them right away.
In conclusion, children can wear contact lenses safely and comfortably with the right support and care. If you have any questions or are curious about whether contact lenses are right for your child, reach out to us at the Eyecare Center of Ken Caryl. We offer a range of contact lenses as well as myopia management services in Littleton to help you protect your child’s vision.