Younger patients have demonstrated compliance with contact lens replacement schedules and lens care. So it makes sense to introduce them to the most compliance-friendly contact lens modality, with single-use daily contact lenses. In a recent study of approximately 500 myopic children ages 8 to 11 years old, children wearing contact lenses showed greater improvements in self-perception compared to children who continued to wear glasses.  These improvements were specifically seen in the areas of physical appearance, athletic competence, and acceptance among friends.  In addition, children who disliked wearing glasses felt more confident in their schoolwork when they began wearing contact lenses. These results make it clear that fitting our younger patients in single-use daily contact lenses can truly make a difference!

The level of maturity of each young patient and the degree of parental oversight and support should be taken into account in assessing whether the child can follow our recommended wear and care instructions and is a good candidate for contact lens wear.