If your child wears glasses, there may come a time when you start thinking about contact lenses for them. Deciding when it's time to get contacts for your child can be a difficult decision to make. Contacts are a lot of responsibility, and not all kids are up to the task, at least right away. If you're not sure your child is ready for contacts, here are four signs you can look for.
They Tend to Their Own Personal Hygiene
Contacts require more time and commitment than prescription glasses do and need to be kept clean at all times. If your child tends to their own personal hygiene without being reminded by you, they may be ready for their own contacts. Some things to look for include the following:
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Bathing without being reminded
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Brushing and flossing their teeth at least twice a day
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Washing their hands when needed
Their Glasses are in Good Condition
If your child wears prescription glasses, watch the way they care for them. If your child knows where their glasses are at all times, wears their glasses as prescribed, and hasn't broken their glasses in at least a year, they're ready to take on the responsibility of wearing contact lenses. Another good sign is if your child keeps their glasses cleaned on a regular basis. If they take the time to clean their glasses, they'll take the time to clean their contacts as well.
They're Active in Sports
If your child is active in sports, prescription glasses can really get in the way. Some sports, such as football and soccer, cannot be played at all while wearing glasses. That means the only options your child has are to either not play that type of sports or play without their glasses, which can be a risk of its own. Contact lenses will give your child the freedom to play the sports they love, while still protecting their vision.
They're Concerned About Their Appearance
As kids mature, they become more concerned about their appearance. This usually occurs around the time they realize that they have a social life. Glasses can interfere with a child's self-esteem, especially if they're being called names, such as "four-eyes". If your child is concerned about their appearance, has asked for contacts, or is being bullied about their prescription glasses, it's time to think seriously about contacts for your child. Contacts will allow your child to correct their vision and feel good about their appearance.
