Wearing contact lenses is a big step for kids, offering them more freedom for activities that wearing glasses might inhibit. However, the increased care needed for contacts means that your child should be responsible and old enough for the task. To help you decide if it's time, here is a guide on recommended ages and the signs that a child is ready for the change.

What Are the Benefits of Kids' Contacts?

Contact lenses cover a portion of or the entire corneal surface. This can help improve your child's peripheral vision, which will keep them safer in situations like crossing the street or playing sports. Contacts won't fog when your child is outside in cold or humid temperatures. If they play high-impact team sports, there's no fear of their contact lenses breaking or causing eye injuries as glasses might.

What Is An Appropriate Age for Kids to Wear Contact Lenses?

Contact lenses can be worn by children as young as eight to 12 years of age, although this may vary depending on the child in question. Kids with enough dexterity are able to insert and remove contacts from their eyes without difficulty, and they typically don't have problems with tear film function, which means there is less risk they will develop dry eye from wearing contacts. This is a common issue some adult wearers experience. 

Is Your Child Responsible Enough for Contacts?

Your child's habits can provide insight into whether they are responsible enough to take care of their lenses. For example, kids who remember to brush their teeth and perform other good hygiene habits—without prompting from their parents—are more likely to remember to wash their hands before handling contacts. If your child is good at following instructions, they should be able to perform each step in the care routine correctly and remember tasks like taking out their contacts before bathing or going to sleep.

If your child is eager to try contact lenses, reach out to Northern Lights Eye Care in Anchorage, AK. These pediatric optometrists provide eye exams and perform fittings to ensure contacts are comfortable and the correct prescription. They offer quick turnaround time and top-notch customer service for everything from exams and fittings to LASIK®. Visit them online to learn more, or call (907) 276-3937 for an appointment.