From Glasses to Contacts: How to Help Your Child Manage the Transition

Kids today are busier than ever. Whether it’s soccer practice, Boy Scouts/Girls Scouts or simply doing homework, kids enjoy the freedom that comes with contacts. That’s why more and more kids are making the switch from glasses to contact lenses.

It’s easy to see why—contacts are more suitable for sports, less likely to be lost, and can help many kids improve their self-confidence. Here are 4 tips to help your child make the transition seamlessly and more enjoyably.

1. Look to the experts

While it may be tempting to purchase contacts online for the convenience factor, this is not the best choice for children. You really need to consult with an expert in person to ensure everything goes as planned. Your Midwest Eye Consultants doctor will make sure you get lenses that fit your child’s eyes and prescription.  Additionally, he or she will walk you both through the process of inserting and removing the lenses and discuss proper care and maintenance. This can help make you both get acclimated to the lifestyle change.

2. Know the basics.

Ensure your child understands how to properly insert and remove their contacts. Remind them to take them out before bed or other activities. They may need your help, supervision and reminders for the first few weeks. It should become routine and second nature after some time.

3. Ease in.

It may take time for your child to feel entirely comfortable in their contacts. Start out slowly by having them wear their glasses for the majority of the day, and then switch to contacts for short periods. Have them wear them at home initially so you can intervene as necessary. From here, we recommend you increase the time your child wears contact lenses as they become more at ease.

4. Check in.

Contacts are an attractive alternative to glasses for the reasons we mentioned, but they do require care and maintenance to avoid infection and eye problems.  When talking to your child, emphasize the importance of washing their hands before putting the lenses in or taking them out. Again, you may need to help them the first few times.

Remember, we’re here to help you know how to protect your child’s eyes while helping him or her to look and feel their best. Your Midwest Eye Consultants doctor can address any concerns you might have regarding this transition.

Interested in a contact lens exam for your child? Make an appointment here.