Contacts for Kids: My Experience and Practical Guide

As a parent, I'm always looking for ways to help my kids thrive and feel confident. When my child started showing interest in contacts, I was a bit hesitant. There were so many things to consider: age, responsibility, hygiene. But I also remembered how much my own vision correction helped me, and I wanted to give my child the same opportunity.

My Child's Vision Journey

It all started when my child began struggling with sports. Glasses were always getting in the way, and peripheral vision was definitely limited. We went to the eye doctor, and sure enough, a prescription was in order. Glasses helped, but the desire for something more streamlined, especially during sports, was strong.

I remember one time, my child said, "Mom, I feel like I'm seeing the world through a keyhole!" That's when I knew we needed to explore other options. That's when we began considering contacts.

Exploring Contacts: Age and Responsibility

My biggest concern was age. Was my child old enough to handle the responsibility of contacts? I did some research and talked to other parents. One thing I learned was that the age wasn't as important as the child's maturity and ability to follow instructions. I started thinking back to when I was younger. I remember wanting contacts for similar reasons. I started wearing contacts when I was 12. I had to learn to put them in and take them out myself at the optometrist's office. Once I could do that and prove I understood the cleaning routine, I was cleared to get them.

We made an appointment with our optometrist to discuss the possibility of contacts. The doctor explained the different types of contacts and the importance of proper hygiene. We talked about daily disposables, which seemed like a good option for a beginner. I even heard of kids starting with daily disposables as early as 8th grade with no issues, which gave me hope.

The Trial and Learning Process

The optometrist had my child try on a pair of contacts. It took some practice, but eventually, my child was able to insert and remove them independently. We also went over the cleaning routine in detail. I made sure my child understood the importance of washing hands thoroughly before handling the contacts and never sleeping in them.

One of the biggest challenges was reminding my child to clean the contacts properly. We created a checklist and posted it in the bathroom to help with this. I also made sure to check in regularly to make sure everything was going smoothly.

Another consideration was the initial cost. Contacts can be expensive, especially if you opt for daily disposables. However, I felt that the benefits outweighed the cost. My child's confidence and participation in sports improved dramatically.

The Peripheral Vision Advantage

One of the most significant benefits of contacts, and something my child immediately noticed, was the return of peripheral vision. It's amazing how much of a difference that makes, especially in sports. My child no longer felt like vision was a limitation.

What if Contacts Aren't the Right Fit?

While contacts worked well for us, they're not the right solution for everyone. Some kids may have allergies or other eye conditions that make contacts unsuitable. And some kids (and parents!) just aren't ready for the responsibility. In these cases, stylish eyeglasses can be a great alternative. I've been exploring some options myself.

I found these round metal eyeglass frames on Cinily Net. I thought they looked both stylish and practical. My child has a strong prescription and was highly motivated to be done with coke bottle glasses. These frames could be a good option for someone wanting a vintage look with modern functionality. They're also available with prescription lenses, which is a huge plus.

I think these glasses are also great because they are lightweight. I remember starting to wear glasses a year before and sports were exactly why I started wearing contacts. These glasses would have solved that problem.

Tips for Success with Contacts

Here are some tips that I learned along the way:

• Start slow: Begin with daily disposables to minimize the risk of infection.
• Emphasize hygiene: Teach your child the importance of washing hands and cleaning the contacts properly.
• Supervise initially: Check in regularly to make sure everything is going smoothly.
• Schedule regular eye exams: Ensure your child's eyes are healthy and the prescription is up-to-date.
• Have a backup plan: Always have a pair of glasses on hand in case of emergencies.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Contacts for Kids

Advantages	Disadvantages
Improved peripheral vision	Risk of infection
Greater freedom of movement during sports	Requires responsibility and hygiene
Increased confidence	Can be more expensive than glasses
No glasses to break or lose	Can be uncomfortable for some

Exploring Alternatives: Stylish Eyeglasses

If contacts aren't the right fit, don't despair! There are plenty of stylish eyeglasses available. I think round glasses are making a comeback! My child started wearing contacts at 11 because of sports. If they hadn't been an option, finding cool frames would have been the next best thing. You can find a great selection of frames at Cinily Vision. Finding the right frames can really make a difference in your child's confidence.

My Key Takeaways

Choosing contacts for my child was a big decision, but ultimately, it was the right one. It improved my child's confidence, vision, and participation in sports. The keys to success were open communication, proper hygiene, and regular eye exams. And remember, if contacts aren't the right fit, there are always stylish eyeglasses to choose from.

For those considering contacts, remember to consult with your eye doctor to determine the best option for your child's individual needs. And don't be afraid to explore different options until you find the perfect fit. The most important thing is to help your child see the world clearly and confidently.

Final Thoughts

I hope my experience has been helpful. Every child is different, and what works for one may not work for another. But with careful consideration and proper guidance, you can help your child make the right decision about vision correction. Wishing you all the best on your vision journey!