Children as young as 6 years old may be suitable candidates for contact lenses, while others may not yet be ready for the responsibility. Determining at what age your kids should wear contact lenses will depend on their maturity, hygiene habits, and ability to follow routines.
Parents also play a crucial part in guiding their child on the use of contact lenses, ensuring proper hygiene and care. This helps protect their vision and minimises the risk of infections or other eye complications.
If your child expresses interest in contact lenses and their eye care professional agrees they are at an appropriate stage, it’s worth exploring the available options. With the right guidance and support, contact lenses can be an alternative to glasses for children.
What Type of Contact Lens Is Best for Kids?
Not all contact lenses are the same, and the right choice for your child depends on their lifestyle, vision needs, and level of maturity. Two of the most commonly recommended options for children are:
1. Orthokeratology (Ortho-K)
Ortho-K lenses are rigid lenses that are worn overnight. These contact lenses gently reshape the cornea while your child sleeps, allowing them to experience improved vision throughout the day without the need for glasses or soft contact lenses. As such, Ortho-K can be suitable for children who participate in sports, lead active lifestyles, or prefer not to wear contacts at school.
Research has shown that Ortho-K lenses can help slow the progression of myopia (short-sightedness), a condition that is common among children in Singapore.
2. Daily Disposable Contact Lenses
Daily disposable soft contact lenses are often considered a convenient option for young beginners who want to try them for the first time. Since they are discarded after each use, there’s no need for cleaning, disinfecting, or storing. This also eliminates the need to purchase contact lens solutions, making them both simple and cost-efficient. There are also daily disposable soft contact lenses designed to slow myopia progression in children.
Tips for Parents in Supporting Their Kids in Growing Comfortable with Contact Lenses
If your child is starting to wear contact lenses regularly, your guidance will make all the difference in helping them maintain proper hygiene and use in the long run. Adjusting to contacts can take time, so patience and encouragement are key. These are some practical ways to support your child during the transition:
- Practice Together: Sit with your child as they learn to insert and remove lenses. Practising together reduces the anxiety associated with wearing contact lenses for the first time and reassures them that they are not alone in the process.
- Create a Routine: Consistency is important. Establish a simple daily checklist that includes washing hands thoroughly, inserting lenses properly, and removing them at the end of the day. A structured routine makes good habits second nature.
- Lead by Example: If you also wear contact lenses regularly, show your child your routine. Children often learn best by watching and imitating, and seeing you handle contacts responsibly reinforces good habits.
- Gradually Increase Wear Time: For kids who prefer to use soft contact lenses, they can start with short wear periods, such as a few hours at home, and slowly extend the duration as they become more comfortable. This gradual approach prevents eye fatigue and allows them to become more accustomed to using these lenses.
- Practice on Weekends: Use weekends or school holidays as opportunities to practise. Without the rush of school mornings, your child will have more time and less pressure to master the routine.
- Prepare a Contact Lens Kit: Equip your child with a small kit for school or outings. This might include lubricating drops (if recommended by their optometrist), a spare pair of glasses, and a clean lens case. Having the right tools on hand builds independence.
Talk to an Optometrist to Determine the Right Contact Lenses for Your Kid
Before your child begins wearing contact lenses, it’s essential to consult with an optometrist. Every child’s eyes are different, and a professional can assess whether contact lenses are suitable, recommend the best type of lens, and provide proper training for safe use.
At Kacee Eye Care, we offer comprehensive eye checkups in Singapore tailored for children. Our optometrists can determine if your child is ready for contact lenses and guide both parents and children on proper handling and wear. With the right support, your child can enjoy clear vision and the freedom that contact lenses bring.
For more eye care tips, check out our parents’ guide to eye care for kids.