Soft Contact Lenses for Children: A Safe Guide for Parents
- The Straits Eye Centre
- Sep 17
- 4 min read
Updated: Sep 26
Why Parents Are Turning to Soft Contact Lenses
Myopia is becoming one of the most common childhood eye conditions in Singapore. While spectacles remain the standard option, more parents are now asking about soft contact lenses for Children. For children who are active, self-conscious about glasses, or experiencing progressive myopia, soft contact lenses may be a safe and effective solution.
What Are Soft Contact Lenses?
Soft contact lenses are thin, flexible lenses that sit directly on the surface of the eye. They are made from hydrogel or silicone hydrogel materials that allow oxygen to pass through, making them comfortable for daily wear.
These lenses are available in multiple forms, including:
Daily disposables: single-use, most hygienic, convenient for beginners.
Bi-weekly or monthly lenses: reusable with proper cleaning, suitable for older children.
Toric lenses: designed to correct astigmatism.
Myopia control contact lenses: clinically proven to slow the progression of myopia in children.
Who Is a Good Candidate?
Soft contact lenses can be considered for children as young as 8 years old, depending on their maturity and hygiene habits.
They are ideal for children who:
Play sports or take part in physical activities where glasses are inconvenient.
Have progressive myopia and require additional control methods.
Want a more natural look without glasses.
Benefits of Soft Contact Lenses for Children
Clear vision without glasses: no frame obstruction, wider visual field.
Improved confidence: especially for children who feel self-conscious in glasses.
Comfort and safety: modern lenses are breathable and well-tolerated.
Myopia control: certain lenses can slow progression by up to 50% when fitted early.
Safety and Risks
When prescribed by a specialist and used responsibly, soft contact lenses are safe for children.
The main risks include:
Eye infections from poor hygiene.
Irritation from over-wear or improper cleaning.
Rare allergic reactions to lens materials or cleaning solutions.
These risks are minimised with daily disposables, proper lens care, and regular follow-ups with an eye specialist.
The Fitting Process
Comprehensive assessment: checks for eye health, prescription, and suitability.
Lens trial and fitting: child learns insertion and removal.
Care education: training for child and parents on safe handling.
Follow-up reviews: to monitor safety, comfort, and effectiveness.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Are contact lenses safe for children in Singapore?
Yes. Studies show children as young as 8 can safely wear lenses when supervised and taught proper hygiene.
2. Can contact lenses help slow myopia?
Yes. Special dual-focus or multifocal contact lenses are proven to reduce myopia progression in children.
3. How often should my child’s lenses be checked?
Every 6–12 months, or sooner if there are signs of discomfort or vision changes.
4. Can my child wear contact lenses during sports?
Yes, they are often preferred for sports, providing stable vision and removing the risk of broken glasses.
5. Are lenses covered by Medisave or insurance?
Medisave does not cover contact lenses. Some private insurance plans may include limited coverage.
6. How long does it take to learn how to wear lenses?
Most children learn within a few tries, especially with daily disposables.
7. What if my child forgets or mishandles lenses?
Parents should supervise initially. Clear routines and proper follow-up minimise risks.
8. How do soft contact lenses compare to Ortho-K?
Soft contact lenses are worn during the day, while Ortho-K reshapes the cornea overnight. Both can slow myopia, but suitability depends on lifestyle and prescription.
Meet Our Specialist
At The Straits Eye Centre, your vision care is in the hands of a dedicated team of experienced ophthalmologists. Each of our doctors brings unique expertise and a shared commitment to delivering thorough, patient-focused care for all ages. Whether you need advanced cataract surgery, paediatric eye management, or treatment for complex eye conditions, our team works together to provide the same attentive care we would want for our own families.
Dr Audrey Pang
Consultant Eye Surgeon
Special interest: Paediatric Ophthalmology, Myopia Control, Amblyopia, Strabismus Trained at the University of Cambridge and fellowship-trained in the UK, Dr Audrey Pang specialises in children’s eye care and adult strabismus. She has held roles at Tan Tock Seng Hospital and serves as Visiting Consultant at TTSH and NUH, offering gentle, evidence-based care for patients of all ages.
Cost, Medisave, and Insurance
Many procedures at The Straits Eye Centre are eligible for Medisave claims under MOH guidelines, and certain insurance plans may cover part or all of your treatment costs. Our patient care team will guide you through eligibility, claim limits, and paperwork, so you can focus on your recovery. For more details, refer to our Medisave & Insurance Guide.
Secure Your Appointment at The Straits Eye Centre
at Parkway East Hospital
Your vision health deserves timely and professional attention. Book your appointment now at our Parkway East Hospital clinic and take the first step towards clearer, healthier sight.
