Requiring eyeglasses is often met with resistance from a teen. Teenagers can balk at the thought of having to wear glasses and appearing ''uncool''. As opposed to glasses, children and teenagers that switch to contact lenses report a significant improvement in their looks, a newly published report shows. The research report suggests that beginning from the age of eight, children should be offered the choice of lenses. Researchers published the study in the November issue of Eye & Contact Lens, the official publication of the Contact Lens Association.

In what way do contact lenses enhance adolescents' self image? Adolescents are easily embarrassed, and they often feel more positive about themselves if they don't have eye glasses being the focus of their appearance. Lenses can help teenagers feel greater self-esteem and more comfort around others by giving them a less obvious alternative for vision correction.

Moreover, contact lenses are an advantage for active teenagers who are involved in sports. For teenagers, contact lenses can be safer than eyeglasses in many situations. Unlike glasses, contacts are not easily during basketball, and other contact sports. Contact lenses are also more convenient when playing sports that require safety masks. In providing a full range of vision, contacts can also enhance teen's peripheral vision during sport activities.

Generally before your child purchases contacts you should consult your eye doctor to discuss any possible problems your child might have. Our optometry practice located in Waterloo, Ontario, will be glad to assist you in determining the right prescription for your teen's contacts.

If your pre-teen or adolescent is in need of vision correction, why not consider contacts? Through something as simple as a soft lens, you can boost your teen's self-esteem. With the wide variety of lenses available, you and your eye doctor can work with your child to decide what type of lens is most suitable for their character and style of life.