Reviewed By Dr. Jodi Kuhn
Reading time: 5 minutes
Children’s eyes are more sensitive to ultraviolet light than adult eyes. Because they spend more time outdoors and their natural UV filtering is still developing, consistent eye protection plays an important role in long-term vision health.
We provide eye care for children and adults at our locations in Denver, Aurora, Hampden and Thornton. We accept Medicaid!
Table of Contents
Dental and Vision Care in One Convenient Location
At our Denver and Aurora locations, Youth Dentistry & Orthodontics and Youth Vision are conveniently located in the same building. This means your child can receive both dental and vision care at one familiar location, without extra travel or scheduling stress.
Why Should Kids Wear Sunglasses?
Kids should wear sunglasses because their eyes are more sensitive to ultraviolet light than adult eyes. More UV rays can pass through a child’s eye, which increases overall sun exposure during the years they spend the most time outdoors.
Over time, this added exposure can:
- Build up and contribute to eye damage
- Increase the risk of certain eye problems later in life
- Cause short-term discomfort like light sensitivity or irritation
- Affect eyes that are still growing and developing
Sunglasses with 100% UVA and UVB protection help limit this exposure and support healthy vision long term.
How Sun Exposure Affects Children’s Eyes
Ultraviolet light can irritate the surface of the eye and affect deeper structures over time. In children, these effects may not be obvious right away, but repeated exposure adds up.
Common effects include:
- Redness or irritation after extended time outdoors
- Increased sensitivity to bright light
- Discomfort in highly reflective environments like water or snow
- Greater lifetime risk of conditions such as cataracts
Unlike sunburn, eye damage does not always cause immediate symptoms. That is why consistent protection is important, even when your child does not complain of discomfort.
When Should Kids Wear Sunglasses?
Kids should wear sunglasses whenever UV exposure is present, not just on bright summer days. UV rays pass through clouds and reflect off surfaces like water, sand, pavement, and snow.
Encourage sunglasses use during:
- Outdoor sports
- Beach and pool days
- Hiking, biking, or playground time
- Snowy days with high glare
Making sunglasses part of everyday outdoor gear helps normalize the habit early.
What Are the Best Sunglasses for Kids?
Sunglasses for children should prioritize protection and durability. They need to block harmful ultraviolet light while staying secure during everyday activity.
When choosing sunglasses for your child, look for:
- Lenses labeled 100% UVA and UVB protection
- Polarized lenses
- Shatter-resistant materials such as polycarbonate
- Frames that sit close to the face without large gaps
- A fit that does not slide down the nose or pinch behind the ears
For toddlers and younger children, choose flexible frames, soft materials, and strap options that help keep them in place during play.
Prescription Sunglasses for Kids
For children who wear glasses, prescription sunglasses provide clear vision and full UV protection in bright outdoor conditions. They are especially important for kids who participate in outdoor sports. Dedicated sports sunglasses are designed to stay secure during movement and provide consistent protection in high-glare environments.
If your child does not spend extended time playing outdoor sports, transition lenses may be a suitable option. These lenses darken in sunlight and return to clear indoors, allowing one pair of glasses to adjust throughout the day..
Protecting Your Child’s Vision Starts Early
At Youth Vision, we offer a curated selection of sunglasses for kids and prescription sunglasses designed for comfort, durability, and full UV protection. Our team can help you find the right fit for your child’s age, activity level, and vision needs.
To schedule an eye exam today at the location most convenient for you:
Phone: (303) 825-2295
Phone: (303) 343-3133
Phone: (303) 953-8801
Phone: (720) 866-9906
FAQs
At what age should kids start wearing sunglasses?
Sunglasses can be introduced as soon as a child spends regular time outside. This often begins in the toddler years during playground visits, walks, and outdoor activities. Starting early helps make sunglasses part of everyday outdoor routines, just like hats or sunscreen.
What if my child refuses to wear sunglasses?
Start with short periods outdoors and choose lightweight frames that fit securely. Consistency helps build the habit over time.
What are UVA and UVB rays?
UVA and UVB are two types of ultraviolet rays from the sun. Both can affect the eyes over time. UVB rays are more closely linked to surface damage, while UVA rays penetrate deeper into eye tissues.
Do kids need polarized lenses?
Polarized lenses reduce glare from reflective surfaces such as water, snow, and pavement. They can improve comfort and visibility in bright conditions, especially during sports or time near water.
Where can I get sunglasses for kids in Denver?
Youth Vision offers sunglasses for kids, including prescription sunglasses and transition lens options, at our locations in Denver, Aurora, Thornton, and Hampden. Our team can help you choose frames that provide full UV protection, a secure fit, and clear vision for outdoor activities. Call the location most convenient for you to schedule an eye exam or eyewear consultation.
