At what age can children start wearing contact lenses?

The appropriate starting age for children to wear contact lenses is not defined by a strict age limit but rather depends on the individual child's maturity and their ability to handle the responsibility of lens care. Children as young as 5 or 6 years old may be ready to wear contacts, provided they demonstrate the necessary responsibility and understanding of hygiene practices required for contact lens use. Factors such as their ability to insert and remove the lenses, follow a cleaning regimen, and recognize the importance of eye health play crucial roles in this decision.

Additionally, parental guidance and the recommendation of an eye care professional are vital in assessing a child's readiness for contact lenses. Children will also differ in their comfort with wearing lenses and their personal preferences, which may affect their willingness to use them regularly.

Age-based recommendations can be helpful, but they are not definitive criteria for every child. By focusing on maturity and the ability to care for contacts, the best option reflects a more personalized approach to contact lens wear, ensuring that children's needs and capabilities are prioritized.