There are many factors to consider when determining whether or not your child is ready for contact lenses. When you’re trying to decide if they’re ready or not, focus on these three key questions:
Are They Safe?
Physically speaking, contact lenses are safe for children at a younger age than many realize. In some cases infants are even fitted with contact lenses for conditions that are present at birth. Also, children are less likely to struggle with dry eyes than adults, which can make contact wear uncomfortable.
Is My Child Responsible Enough?
This is ultimately a subjective matter. Only you know if your child can be trusted to care for contacts. How do they handle other responsibilities like homework and chores? How do they care for their personal belongings?
The option of disposable contacts also eases the burden of responsibility on teens, and may ease your financial burden because you won’t face replacing costly permanent lenses if something happens to a pair your child is wearing.
How Will They Benefit My Child?
Contacts may be safer for your teen’s eyes, particularly if they are involved in sports. They also increase their range of vision over glasses.
In addition, contacts may be a boost to your teen’s self-esteem. Multiple studies indicate that teens’ self-confidence had a marked increase once they switched to contact lenses, even carrying over from social confidence to increased academic and athletic performance.
If you’re thinking about switching your teen to contact lenses, ask me questions in the comments below. Call today to schedule an exam with me to determine if contact lenses are a good option for your child.