As children grow, their needs and preferences evolve—sometimes in surprising ways. The request for contact lenses is one common milestone that often leaves parents wondering is now the right time. Whether it’s for sports, aesthetics, or simply the desire to ditch glasses, many kids eventually ask, “Can I get contacts?” But how do you know if your child is truly ready? Here are some tips to help you decide if contact lenses are the right choice for your child.

Understanding the Basics: What Are Contact Lenses?

Contact lenses are thin, curved discs that sit directly on the surface of the eye to correct vision. They can be used to correct the same issues that glasses address, such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, astigmatism, and even presbyopia. Contacts offer some unique benefits, especially for active children, as they provide a wider field of vision and don’t get in the way during physical activities.

Signs Your Child May Be Ready for Contacts

Every child is different, and readiness for contact lenses isn’t determined solely by age. Instead, it’s about a combination of factors, including responsibility, maturity, and lifestyle. Here are some signs that your child may be ready to make the switch:

1. Maturity and Responsibility

The most important factor in determining whether your child is ready for contacts is their level of responsibility. Wearing contacts requires daily care and hygiene. Your child needs to be able to follow instructions carefully, clean their lenses regularly, and handle them with clean hands to avoid eye infections. If your child reliably handles other responsibilities, such as homework and chores, they may be ready for the added responsibility of contact lenses.

2. Expressing a Strong Interest

If your child has been asking for contact lenses and seems genuinely motivated to wear them, this is a good sign. A child who is interested in contacts is more likely to be diligent about taking care of them. This interest might stem from wanting to participate in sports without the hassle of glasses, feeling more confident without glasses, or simply wanting a change.

3. Active Lifestyle

For children involved in sports or other physical activities, contact lenses can offer significant advantages. Contacts don’t fog up, fall off, or get in the way during activities. They also provide better peripheral vision, which can be beneficial in sports. If your child frequently complains about their glasses interfering with their activities, contacts might be a good solution.

4. Discomfort or Dissatisfaction with Glasses

Some children find glasses uncomfortable or dislike how they look in them. If your child frequently expresses discomfort or is unhappy with wearing glasses, contacts could be a suitable alternative. It’s important to have a conversation with your child about why they want contacts and ensure their reasons are based on comfort and practicality, not just peer pressure.

Considerations Before Making the Switch

While there are many benefits to contact lenses, they also come with certain responsibilities and risks. Here are some considerations to keep in mind:

1. Age and Eye Health

There isn’t a specific age at which children should start wearing contacts, but most eye care professionals recommend waiting until a child is at least 8 to 10 years old. At this age, children are typically mature enough to handle the responsibilities that come with contacts. Additionally, it’s essential to ensure your child’s eyes are healthy enough for contacts. An eye exam will help determine if contact lenses are a suitable option for your child.

2. Commitment to Hygiene

Proper hygiene is critical when wearing contacts. Children must be committed to washing their hands before touching their lenses, cleaning the lenses as instructed, and replacing them on schedule. Poor hygiene can lead to eye infections, which can be serious. If your child is prone to skipping steps in their daily routine, contacts may not be the best choice right now.

3. Understanding the Risks

Children (and parents) should be aware of the risks associated with contact lens wear. These include eye infections, irritation, and the potential for more severe eye conditions if lenses are not cared for properly. It’s important to discuss these risks with your child so they understand the importance of following the care instructions provided by their eye care professional.

4. Financial Considerations

Contacts can be more expensive than glasses due to the need for regular replacement lenses, cleaning solutions, and follow-up eye exams. Consider whether your family is prepared for the ongoing costs associated with contact lenses.

Determining whether your child is ready for contact lenses is a personal decision that depends on your child’s maturity, responsibility level, and lifestyle needs. If your child is motivated, responsible, and ready to take on the extra care that contacts require, they could be an excellent option. However, if you’re unsure, it’s always a good idea to discuss the pros and cons with the doctors at Bissell Eye Care, who can help guide you through the decision-making process. Ultimately, the goal is to ensure your child’s vision is clear, comfortable, and well cared for—whether that’s with glasses, contacts, or a combination of both.

Give our office a call at 724-443-6767 or 724-226-0444 to explore various brands of contact lenses and answer any questions you may have.

About Bissell Eye Care: John D. Bissell, OD owns and operates Bissell Eye Care servicing Northern Pittsburgh and Alle-Kiski Valley regions. With two locations to treat patients, we offer evening appointments. Bissell Eye Care provides comprehensive eye examinations for the entire family beginning as early as 6 months, ocular disease detection and treatment, eyeglasses, sunglasses, activewear, contact lenses, and low vision examinations for those with significant vision loss. We accept most types of vision and health insurance plans. For more information, visit bisselleyecare.com or call our Bakerstown Office at 724-443-6767 or Natrona Heights office at 724-226-0444.