How to Find the Right Contact Lenses for Kids

Types of Contact Lenses for Children

Selecting the right type of contact lens for your child involves considering factors such as their age, prescription, and daily routine. There are several contact lens options, each offering distinct benefits and considerations.

Daily disposable lenses are designed for single use and must be discarded at the end of the day. These lenses require minimal cleaning, which significantly reduces the risk of infections, making them an excellent choice for younger children or those new to contact lenses. While single-use lenses may be more expensive over time, they are ideal for children who prefer a low-maintenance solution that promotes good hygiene without the need for cleaning or storing lenses.

Monthly or two-week disposable lenses are replaced at scheduled intervals—either every 30 days or 14 days, depending on the lens type. These lenses are more affordable than daily disposables, provided that your child follows a proper cleaning and storage routine. Monthly and bi-weekly lenses come in a range of prescriptions but require careful attention to cleaning to avoid potential eye infections. These lenses are typically better suited for older children or teenagers who can maintain the necessary hygiene practices.

Rigid gas permeable (RGP) lenses are crafted from durable, breathable materials that allow oxygen to reach the cornea. RGP lenses are often recommended for children with more complex vision needs, such as astigmatism, as they provide sharper vision for certain prescriptions. While they offer excellent long-term durability, RGP lenses can take longer to adjust to and require consistent cleaning. These lenses are best for children or teens with specific vision needs who are able to follow a regular cleaning routine and manage the adjustment period.

Orthokeratology (Ortho-K) lenses are worn overnight to gently reshape the cornea, providing clear daytime vision without the need for glasses or contacts. This option is especially helpful in slowing the progression of myopia (nearsightedness) in some children. However, Ortho-K lenses require strict adherence to an overnight wearing and cleaning schedule. They are ideal for older, responsible children or teens who are committed to a consistent routine and prefer the convenience of clear vision during the day without relying on corrective eyewear.

Age Considerations for Contact Lenses

Determining when a child is ready for contact lenses depends on various factors, not just age. Maturity, responsibility, and the ability to follow care instructions are all key elements in ensuring safe and effective contact lens use.

Young Children (8-12 Years Old)

For children in this age group, daily disposable lenses are typically the best choice. These lenses don’t require cleaning, which reduces the risk of infections—especially important for younger children who may still be refining their hygiene habits.

Although younger children can wear contacts, they should always be supervised by a parent or guardian. They will need guidance on how to properly insert, remove, and dispose of the lenses. It's crucial for parents to reinforce the importance of handwashing and to remind their child not to expose the lenses to water, such as when swimming or showering.

Preteens and Teenagers (13-17 Years Old)

For preteens and teenagers who have demonstrated responsibility in their personal care, longer-wear lenses such as monthly or bi-weekly disposables may be a great option. Teens who show the ability to manage their daily tasks independently, such as homework or chores, are often ready to handle the added responsibility of maintaining contact lenses.

Though teens should take on the responsibility of their lens care, it’s important for parents to continue monitoring and making sure they follow the proper hygiene practices. Teens involved in sports or other physical activities will benefit from the enhanced comfort and peripheral vision that contact lenses offer. For those who can care for their lenses properly, specialty lenses like RGP or Ortho-K may be suitable, depending on their eye care provider’s recommendation and prescription needs.

How to Use Contact Lenses Safely

For kids and teens who wear contact lenses, establishing proper habits early on is key to ensuring safe and comfortable use while avoiding potential complications. Below are important tips for keeping your child’s contact lens wear safe and their eyes healthy:

1. Practice Good Hygiene: Always wash hands thoroughly with soap and water before handling contact lenses. Dry your hands with a clean towel to prevent transferring germs that can cause eye infections. Remind children never to rinse or store their lenses in tap water, as it can introduce harmful bacteria to both the lenses and the eyes. 

2. Follow the Replacement Schedule: If using daily disposable lenses, make sure they are disposed of after each day. For monthly or bi-weekly disposables, it’s essential to replace them on schedule to avoid eye issues. Never extend wear beyond the recommended duration and avoid sleeping in lenses that aren’t designed for overnight use. Doing so can lead to corneal infections and other complications. 

3. Clean and Store Lenses Properly: Always clean contact lenses with the disinfecting or multipurpose solution recommended by your optometrist. Saline solution or rewetting drops alone aren’t sufficient to disinfect the lenses. Ensure the lens case is cleaned and dried daily and replace it every three months to prevent contamination. 

4. Watch for Discomfort: If your child experiences redness, irritation, or blurry vision, they should remove the lenses immediately and contact an eyecarecenter professional for advice. Encourage them to report any unusual sensations like dryness, discomfort, or persistent blurred vision before continuing with lens wear. 

5. Limit Water Exposure: Water can introduce harmful bacteria and pathogens to contact lenses. Unless directed by an eye care professional, avoid wearing lenses while swimming or engaging in water-based activities. Consider prescription goggles for aquatic activities as a safer alternative. 

6. Schedule Regular Eye Exams: Children’s vision changes rapidly, so regular check-ups are necessary to ensure their contact lenses still fit properly. Make annual or semiannual visits to your optometrist to keep your child’s prescription up-to-date and monitor for any discomfort, infections, or vision changes. 

Find the Right Contact Lenses for Your Child at eyecarecenter

Choosing contact lenses for your child can be a great way to enhance their vision and provide them with more freedom in their daily life. However, it’s important to approach this decision carefully, considering factors such as their age, maturity, and ability to handle the responsibility of lens care. By understanding the different types of lenses available, maintaining good hygiene practices, and scheduling regular eye exams, you can ensure that contact lens use is both safe and beneficial for your child.

At eyecarecenter, we are committed to guiding you and your family through every step of the process—whether you're determining if your child is ready for contacts or seeking advice on lens care and safety. If you're considering contact lenses for your child or have any questions, book a contact lens exam with us today. We’ll work together to create a personalized plan that supports healthy vision and keeps your child’s eyes comfortable and clear.

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