Contact Lenses for Kids: What Parents Need to Know

Last Updated: 
April 27, 2026

If your child wears glasses, you might have wondered if contact lenses could be a good option for them.

Note: This post was originally published on merivalevisioncare.com or wellingtonvisioncare.com. Merivale Vision Care is now Vision Care Merivale and Wellington Vision Care is now Vision Care Wellington, part of Vision Care Ottawa.

As parents, we want the best for our children, providing them with the right tools to see the world. If your child wears glasses, you might have wondered if contact lenses could be a good option for them. 

With today's advancements in contact lens technology, many children and teens are successfully making the switch. But how do you know if your child is ready for contact lenses? 

At Merivale Vision Care, we're here to help you decide if contact lenses are right for your child and explain what you need to know before making that decision.

The Benefits of Contact Lenses for Kids

  • Better Vision for Active Lifestyles: Kids who play sports or engage in outdoor activities often find contact lenses more practical than glasses.
  • Improved Self-Confidence: Many kids feel more confident when switching glasses to contacts.
  • Enhanced Peripheral Vision: Unlike glasses, contact lenses provide full, unobstructed sight.
  • Aesthetic Freedom: Contact lenses allow kids to wear any style of sunglasses or safety goggles without the limitations of eyeglass frames.

Types of Contact Lenses for Kids

  • Daily Disposable Lenses: An excellent option for kids because they require minimal maintenance.
  • Toric Lenses: If your child has astigmatism, toric lenses may be the best option.
  • Orthokeratology (Ortho-K) Lenses: Worn overnight and temporarily reshape the cornea, particularly helpful for kids with progressive myopia.

The Role of Regular Eye Exams

Regular eye exams are crucial to maintaining eye health even after your child wears contact lenses. At Merivale Vision Care, we recommend scheduling eye exams at least once a year to monitor your child's vision, assess the fit of their contact lenses, and address any potential issues.

Conclusion

Switching to contact lenses can be an exciting milestone for your child, offering them more freedom and flexibility in their daily lives. At Merivale Vision Care, we support you every step of the way.

If you think your child may be ready for contact lenses or have any questions about the process, contact us today to schedule an appointment. Our team of experienced optometrists will help you make the best decision for your child's vision and eye health.

Your next step is clear

Book an appointment at any of our three Ottawa locations. Your eyes are in good hands.

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Your next step is clear

Whether you need a routine eye exam or specialized care, our team is here for you.

Merivale

2–1547 Merivale Road Ottawa, ON K2G 4V3
(613) 226-8446merivale@visioncareottawa.ca
Merivale
45.354302
-75.734340
2–1547 Merivale Road Ottawa, ON K2G 4V3

Merivale

2–1547 Merivale Road Ottawa, ON K2G 4V3

Wellington

1282-C Wellington St W, Ottawa ON K1Y 3A7
(613) 421-4880wellington@visioncareottawa.ca
Wellington
45.39888
-75.7347488
1282-C Wellington St W, Ottawa ON K1Y 3A7

Wellington

1282-C Wellington St W, Ottawa ON K1Y 3A7

Woodward

1818B Woodward, Ottawa ON K2C 0P7
613-651-1887woodward@visioncareottawa.ca
Woodward
45.368962
-75.751489
1818B Woodward, Ottawa ON K2C 0P7

Woodward

1818B Woodward, Ottawa ON K2C 0P7