Can Kids Wear Contacts?

Even we can admit, glasses are pretty cool these days. They come in a variety of colors and shapes, they’re easy to wear, and they look downright adorable on kids. But if your child plays sports or doesn't want to wear their glasses, you might be wondering: Can kids wear contacts? 

Let’s break it down so you can decide what’s best for your family. 

What Age Can Kids Wear Contacts? 

There isn’t one “perfect” age, but many eye doctors recommend considering contact lenses at around 8 to 12 years old. 

That said, age is just a guideline. The most important factor isn’t how old your child is, it’s whether they’re ready for the responsibility of wearing and caring for contact lenses properly. 

Some children may be ready earlier, while others may benefit from waiting a little longer. An eye doctor can help you decide based on your child’s maturity, hygiene habits, and vision needs. 

Is Your Child Ready for Contact Lenses? 

When deciding if contacts are a good choice, think about these three areas: 

1. Maturity 

Does your child: 

• Finish their homework without constant reminders? 

• Keep track of their belongings? 

• Follow directions carefully? 

Contact lenses require daily care. Kids must insert and remove them properly. If they wear reusable lenses, they also need to clean and store them correctly. If your child handles other responsibilities well, they may be ready for contacts. 

2. Motivation 

Kids who truly want contacts are more likely to take care of them. 

Some children want more freedom during sports. Others simply prefer how they look or feel without glasses. Teens, especially, may struggle with self-esteem, and wearing and caring for their contacts can help them feel more confident. When the motivation comes from them, success is more likely. 

3. Hygiene 

Clean hands are a must! 

Poor hygiene can lead to eye irritation or infection. If your child understands the importance of washing their hands and following routines, that’s a strong sign they’re prepared. 

The Contact Lens Fitting Process for Kids 

If you decide to move forward, here’s what usually happens. 

Comprehensive Eye Exam 

An eye doctor will check: 

• Prescription strength 

• Overall eye health 

• Tear quality 

• Corneal shape 

This ensures contacts are safe and appropriate for your child. 

Contact Lens Fitting 

Your child will: 

• Try lenses in the office 

• Learn how to insert and remove them 

• Practice cleaning steps (if needed) 

Parents should be involved in this training, especially for younger children, so they can help at home. 

Follow-Up Appointments 

Follow-up visits are important. Doctors usually schedule a check-in within a week or two after the first fitting. This visit confirms: 

• The lenses fit correctly 

• The eyes are healthy 

• There are no signs of irritation 

After that, children should have yearly eye exams at a minimum. Some may need more frequent visits, especially if their prescription changes quickly or they use myopia control lenses. 

How Much Do Contacts for Kids Cost? 

Cost is a big factor for many families. 

The total price depends on: 

• The type of lens (daily or monthly) 

• Whether specialty lenses are prescribed 

• Insurance coverage 

• The number of follow-up visits 

Average Cost Differences 

• Daily disposable lenses: Usually cost more upfront, but are more convenient and do not need cleaning or disinfecting. 

• Monthly or bi-weekly lenses: Often cost less per box, but require solution, storage, and routine care. 

• Myopia control lenses: May cost more because they use specialized technology. 

Fun fact: Since kids’ prescriptions can change more often than adults’, you may need updates each year. If you notice changes in your child's vision, squinting, or difficulty following along at school, consider making another appointment with your optometrist. 

Save on Contact Lenses at 1-800 Contacts 

Looking to keep costs manageable? At 1-800 Contacts, you can apply your vision insurance at checkout, take advantage of manufacturer rebates, and feel confident with our best-price guarantee. Ordering an annual supply can help you maximize savings and avoid last-minute reorders. It’s a simple way to keep your child stocked up while staying on budget. 

Does Vision Insurance Cover Contacts for Kids? 

Yes, most vision plans cover some or all of the costs. Many vision insurance plans include: 

• An annual eye exam 

• A contact lens fitting (sometimes partially covered) 

• An allowance toward lenses or glasses 

Coverage varies by plan. Some plans allow benefits for either glasses or contacts, but not both. Others may require a copay for fittings. 

If your child needs myopia control lenses, coverage may be different since these are considered specialty lenses. 

It’s always smart to: 

• Review your benefits each year 

• Ask your eye doctor’s office about coverage 

• Confirm whether follow-up visits are included 

Myopia Control: An Important Benefit for Kids 

If your child is nearsighted (myopic), contact lenses may offer more than just convenience. 

Some specialty lenses are designed to actually slow the progression of myopia. They work by changing how light focuses on the retina, which may help reduce how quickly nearsightedness worsens. 

Slowing myopia progression may reduce the risk of future eye health problems linked to high prescriptions. 

If your child’s nearsightedness is getting worse each year, ask your eye doctor about myopia control lenses. 

Safety Tips for Kids Wearing Contacts 

Safety is always the top priority. 

Teach your child to: 

• Always wash their hands before handling lenses 

• Never sleep in their lenses unless prescribed 

• Replace their lenses on schedule 

• Use fresh solution every time (for reusable lenses) 

• Never share lenses (eww) 

• Remove their contacts before swimming or showering 

Warning Signs of Contact Lens Problems 

Remove the lenses and call your eye doctor if your child has: 

• Redness 

• Eye pain 

• Light sensitivity 

• Blurry vision 

• Excessive tearing 

• Discharge 

Early treatment can prevent small problems from becoming serious infections. 

Contacts for Sports and School 

Contacts can offer real advantages for active kids. 

During Sports 

• No slipping or fogging 

• Better peripheral (side) vision 

• More stable vision during movement 

Many young athletes prefer daily disposables because they are simple and low-maintenance. 

During School 

Contacts may: 

• Help kids feel more confident 

• Make it easier to wear safety goggles in labs 

• Improve comfort during long school days 

Still, most parents keep glasses as a backup option. 

What About Colored Contacts for Kids? 

Colored lenses can be fun, especially for Halloween. But they are still medical devices. 

Even decorative lenses require a prescription and proper fitting. We don’t recommend colored contacts for children who have never worn lenses before. 

If your child already wears contacts and wants colored lenses, buy them from a trusted vision care provider, not a costume shop. 

So… Should Your Kid Get Contacts? 

If your child shows maturity, motivation, and strong hygiene habits (and your eye doctor gives the green light) contact lenses can be a safe and practical option. 

The best next step? Schedule an eye exam and discuss: 

• Lens type (daily vs. reusable) 

• Myopia control options 

• Wear schedule 

• Cost considerations 

• Backup glasses plan 

Every child is different, but with proper guidance and supervision, many kids thrive with contact lenses. 

 

Original publish date: 9/14/2021

Updated date: 4/15/2026