4/4 : Everything you need to know about your child's eye test

"What about contact lenses?
'There are only a very few eye conditions where children would be prescribed contact lenses,' says Louise Garnham. 'The problem is that children have to be very motivated to wear them and those younger than teenagers can't really be bothered.'

The Eyecare Trust says both parents and children need to be aware of the high level of care required to keep contact lenses clean and safe, as well as the need for frequent check-ups to keep their eyes healthy.

Some parents may worry that wearing contact lenses so young could damage a child's vision, but Louise says there is no cause for concern. 'Wearing contact lenses, or glasses, does not make your eyesight any worse,' she says.

Parents should also remember to protect their child's eyesight in the sun. Experts say UV exposure from the sun's rays causes the most damage before the age of 18 so it is important that children wear sunglasses. Your child may need prescription sunglasses for the summer, but all sunglasses should have the CE mark and conform to European standard BS:EN 1836:1997. Talk to your optician for more help on which sunglasses to choose.

For more information and advice, visit the Eyecare Trust website on www.eye-care.org.uk or call the Moorfields Hospital Eye"