Contact lenses can be a total game changer for kids and parents alike. No more broken glasses or fogged-up lenses during sports. But with all the convenience, safety needs to come first. Contact lens safety for kids is not just about clear vision. It is about protecting those little eyes from infections and long-term damage.
At Navigation Eye Care, we love helping families make safe, smart choices about contacts. If you are thinking about contact lenses for your child or want to brush up on best practices, this guide will set you on the right path.
Proper Hygiene
The number one rule of contact lens safety for kids (and adults too) is proper hygiene. It may sound simple, but it is often overlooked in the rush of a busy day.
Here are the basics:
- Wash hands with soap and water before touching lenses
- Dry hands with a lint-free towel
- Clean lenses daily with fresh solution (never water or saliva)
- Store lenses in a clean case with fresh solution
- Replace lens cases every three months
One helpful tip for families: create a routine checklist. A quick hygiene check can easily become part of the morning and bedtime routine, right along with brushing teeth. And no, sleeping in contacts is not a shortcut—it is one of the fastest ways to cause trouble.
Red Flag Symptoms
Even when kids are careful, sometimes the eyes send warning signs that something is not right. As parents, knowing the red flags can make all the difference.
Watch for:
- Redness or irritation that does not go away
- Eye pain or discomfort
- Blurry vision
- Light sensitivity
- Discharge or crust around the eye
If your child mentions anything that sounds suspicious, do not wait. Remove the lenses and give us a call. Our eye doctor can quickly check if it is something minor or if the eyes need a little extra care.
Teaching your child to speak up if their eyes feel weird is one of the best early habits you can encourage.
Annual Follow-Ups
Contacts are not a “set it and forget it” solution. Even if everything seems fine, annual checkups are essential to make sure the lenses are still a good fit and the eyes are staying healthy.
During an annual contact lens exam, we check:
- Eye health and oxygen flow
- Lens fit and comfort
- Any subtle changes in prescription
- Early signs of problems before symptoms show up
At Navigation Eye Care, we know life gets busy. Still, a once-a-year visit can help avoid major issues and keep your child’s vision clear and comfortable. Plus, these visits give us a chance to answer any new questions your child or you might have as they grow and their activities change.
Clear Vision Starts with Safe Habits
You are doing an amazing job keeping your family’s health on track. Contact lenses can be a fantastic option for kids, but only with the right care and guidance.
At Navigation Eye Care, we make sure you are never navigating this journey alone. From first fittings to yearly checkups, our experienced eye doctor is here to guide your family with patience and expertise.
Schedule your child’s contact lens exam today.
We are excited to help your child enjoy the freedom of contacts—safely and confidently.
Click to book or give us a call. Clear, safe vision is just one appointment away.