Are Contact Lenses Recommended for Kids?

Contact lenses are a common vision correction option for people with refractive vision errors, but many parents wonder if their children can also wear contacts. The optometrists at The Eye Doctor Unlimited in College Park, GA, can help you determine if contact lenses are the best solution for your child’s vision needs and lifestyle.

What Is the Minimum Age for Contacts?

There is no set age when kids can start wearing contacts, but your eye doctor near you typically prefers fitting children in eyeglasses first to allow them to adjust to corrected vision. Most optometrists wait until ages 8-12 to consider contact lens fittings depending on the child’s maturity level and ability to properly insert, remove, and care for contacts.

Are Contacts Safe for Kids?

Contact lenses are a safe vision correction option for children when they fit and are cared for correctly. Studies have shown that contact lenses may slow the progression of nearsightedness in children better than eyeglasses can. Kids also benefit from new monthly or biweekly replacement schedules rather than wearing contacts for longer durations.

Advantages of Contact Lenses

Contact lenses offer certain benefits over eyeglasses for active kids, such as:

•             Not needing to worry about eyeglasses falling off during sports

•             Will not have to worry about breaking eyeglasses

•             More expansive field of vision

•             Easier to maintain clear vision

You should discuss the pros and cons of contact lenses versus eyeglasses with your eye doctor near you. You should also account for your child’s activities, vision needs, maturity level, and interests before deciding if moving to contacts could benefit their lifestyle.

Schedule an Eye Exam for Your Child to See if Contacts Are Right for Them

Contact lenses offer a more convenient alternative to eyeglasses for your child’s visual correction needs, so contact The Eye Doctor Unlimited in College Park, GA, to schedule an eye exam for your child to determine if contact lenses may be right for them. Call us and schedule an appointment with our optometrist at (404) 768-3500.