If your child has recently expressed interest in swapping their glasses for contact lenses, you may wonder whether they’re old enough for this solution. While many kids wear contacts every day, age shouldn’t be the only factor you use to determine if they’re right for your child. Consider the following factors to assess their readiness.

What Are the Benefits of Contacts for Children?

While frames are available to accommodate active children, many kids find contacts to be hassle-free alternatives to glasses for physical activity. Wearing contacts can help children avoid broken or misplaced glasses resulting from sports practice, play time, and other high-energy activities. Children may also find contacts more comfortable. Finally, because putting in contacts becomes part of their morning routine, they’re less likely to forget their eyewear for school.

What’s the Youngest Age Children Can Wear Them?

Many eye doctors will consider a contact lens prescription for a child between the ages of eight and 11 if the patient expresses their interest. If the patient, eye doctor, and parents mutually agree that the child is both responsible and mature enough, then a contact lens fitting/evaluation can be arranged. The doctor will fit the patient for lenses and determine the best option for them. 

How Can You Tell If Your Child Is Ready?

In addition to their age, you can use your child’s maturity level as a basis for determining whether they’re ready for contacts. Children who are diligent with their personal hygiene, schoolwork, and chores are well-suited for this next step. Of course, children can always change their minds and return to wearing glasses if they’re not quite ready for regular lens wear.

If you’re looking for an eye doctor to provide your child’s first contact lenses, turn to Nelson O. Yoshioka, Jr., O.D. Serving patients of all ages throughout the Honolulu, HI area, this optometrist has more than 20 years of experience offering comprehensive eye exams, glasses, and lenses. Learn more about the office’s eyewear options online, or call (808) 734-7050 to schedule an appointment in Honolulu. You can also call (808) 455-3333 to visit Cheryl C. Niitani, O.D. and Evan S. Tanaka, O.D. at the Pearl City location.