What’s your strategy with kids and contact lenses? I remember when I was first fitted with contact lenses; it was a big day in my mind! Succeeding when presenting contact lenses to children can often be about timing.

Scenario #1

An 8-year-old full-time spectacle-wearing child and their parent are asking about contact lenses and when they can start wearing them. How does an eyecare professional direct the conversation and approach care?

Many practitioners struggle with the best age to start children in contact lenses. Daily disposables have made that conversation much easier to have, in my opinion. This technology allows improved convenience and the health benefits of wearing a new contact lens every day. This modality is more compliant, and there is less risk of overwear.

Scenario #2

An 8-year-old full-time spectacle-wearing patient is sitting in your chair. They have not thought about wearing contact lenses yet. When does an eyecare professional present contact lenses to the patient and their parents?

My response would be as follows: “I know your child is young, but you may want to consider this option in the next year or so. Daily disposable contact lenses are safe with proper instruction and technology. Let me know when you are ready to go down this path because we fit children and kids in our office all the time.”

Consider setting a strategy to be more proactive with kids and contact lenses. Even if the patient or their parents do not ask about contact lenses, consider setting the stage for future appointments and future success.

 This content was supported via unrestricted sponsorship