As a parent, you want to give your child the best opportunities to thrive, and vision plays a huge role in their everyday life. If your child struggles with glasses slipping down their nose during soccer practice or feels self-conscious wearing them at school, you may have wondered if contact lenses are an option. At Insight Eyecare, we’ve helped many families in Las Vegas and the surrounding areas navigate this decision, and we’re here to answer your biggest questions about contact lenses for kids.

Is My Child Ready for Contact Lenses?

One of the first questions parents ask is, “At what age can my child wear contact lenses?” There’s no strict rule—it depends on their maturity level and ability to follow proper hygiene. Many kids as young as 8 to 10 years old successfully wear contacts, but some younger children can also handle them with proper guidance.

If your child is responsible, follows instructions well, and can commit to cleaning and caring for their lenses, they may be a great candidate. However, if they struggle with personal hygiene or frequently lose small items, they may need a little more time before transitioning to contacts.

Why Consider Ortho-K for Kids?

While soft contact lenses are a common choice, Ortho-K (Orthokeratology) lenses offer a unique advantage, especially for kids who have myopia. These specialized lenses are worn overnight and gently reshape the cornea while your child sleeps, providing clear vision throughout the day—without the need for glasses or daytime contacts.

Benefits of Ortho-K for Kids in Las Vegas:

•          Slows Myopia Progression: Research shows that Ortho-K can help slow down the progression of nearsightedness, reducing the risk of severe myopia later in life.

•          No Daytime Discomfort: Since the lenses are removed in the morning, there’s no need to worry about dust, dry eyes, or irritation—a huge plus in the dry climate of Las Vegas and Henderson.

•          Great for Active Lifestyles: If your child plays sports, dances, or enjoys outdoor activities, Ortho-K eliminates the hassle of glasses getting in the way or daytime lenses falling out.

•          Boosts Confidence: Some kids feel self-conscious wearing glasses. Ortho-K allows them to enjoy clear vision without any visible correction.

Are Contact Lenses Safe for Children?

Yes! With proper hygiene and regular checkups, contact lenses—including Ortho-K—are very safe for children. Unlike traditional soft lenses, Ortho-K reduces the risk of dry eye symptoms because the lenses aren’t worn during waking hours.

The Importance of Regular Contact Lens Exams for Kids

Children's eyes are still developing, and their prescriptions can change quickly. A comprehensive contact lens exam ensures their lenses fit properly, their vision remains clear, and their eyes stay healthy. These checkups also allow us to monitor for any signs of irritation, dryness, or infections—especially important in Las Vegas’ dry climate, where eye hydration can be a challenge. Even if your child isn’t experiencing discomfort, small issues can go unnoticed and lead to bigger problems if left unchecked. At Insight Eyecare, we recommend scheduling at least one exam per year, though some children may need more frequent visits depending on their vision needs. These exams help protect their eye health while keeping their vision correction safe and effective.

Get Started at Insight Eyecare Today

If you’re considering contact lenses for your child, Ortho-K may be the perfect solution—especially if they have myopia and lead an active lifestyle. At Insight Eyecare, we’ve helped countless families find the right vision solution for their kids. We’re happy to answer your questions and guide you through the process.

Schedule an eye exam with Insight Eyecare to learn more about Ortho-K and whether it’s right for your child. Visit our office in Las Vegas, Nevada, or call (702) 718-7163 today.