Reviewed By Dr. Jodi Kuhn
Reading time: 5 minutes
When we think about protecting our children from the sun, sunscreen often comes to mind first. However, their eyes need protection too.
Kids spend a lot of time outside, which makes them more vulnerable to UV exposure. Wearing sunglasses is important for their vision health, both now and in the future.
In this blog, we’ll discuss why kids should wear sunglasses, what to look for when shopping for kid’s shades, and how to encourage your child to wear them.
Table of Contents
Key Takeaway
Kids should wear sunglasses to protect their eyes from harmful UV rays and prevent long-term eye damage. Prioritizing UV protection and comfort ensures their vision stays healthy as they grow.
The Dangers of UV Light
UV light is invisible but harmful. Prolonged exposure to UV rays can damage the eye’s surface, lens, and retina, increasing the risk of conditions such as:
- Macular degeneration: This condition is a leading cause of vision loss in older adults, and begins with cumulative UV damage over time.
- Cataracts: A clouding of the eye’s lens, which can impair vision.
- Snow blindness: This painful condition results from short-term, high-intensity exposure to UV light, such as sunlight reflecting off snow or water.
Increased Exposure to UV Light in Children
Children are more exposed to UV light because they:
- Spend more time outdoors: Whether it’s recess, sports, or summer vacations, kids are outside a lot.
- Engage in outdoor activities: Playgrounds, beaches, and ski slopes all pose a higher risk of UV exposure.
- Have more sensitive skin and eyes: A child’s delicate skin and clear lenses are more susceptible to UV damage than those of adults.
Protecting Your Child’s Eyes
To protect your child’s eyes, consider these tips:
- Encourage wearing sunglasses regularly: Make it a habit for your child to wear their sunglasses whenever they’re outside, even on cloudy days.
- Pair sunglasses with a wide-brimmed hat: A hat can block about 50% of UV rays from reaching the eyes, offering extra protection.
- Check with an eye doctor: Schedule regular eye exams to monitor your child’s eye health and discuss the best sun protection strategies.
- Avoid cheap sunglasses: Ensure that the sunglasses you buy for your child are of high quality with verified UV protection, not just a dark tint.
- Start young: Even babies in sunglasses benefit from eye protection. There are infant sunglasses designed specifically for the delicate eyes of babies.
Features to Look for in Sunglasses for Kids
UV Protection
The most important thing in any pair of sunglasses is UV protection. Sunglasses should block 100% of both UVA and UVB rays. Without proper UV protection, dark lenses can actually cause more harm than good by allowing the pupils to dilate and let in more harmful rays. Ensure that the sunglasses you choose are labeled as providing 100% UV protection.
Impact-Resistant Polycarbonate Lenses
Kids are naturally active, and their sunglasses need to withstand the bumps and tumbles of playing outside. Polycarbonate lenses are an excellent choice because they are lightweight, shatter-resistant, and provide clear vision. This makes them an ideal option for kids who might drop or accidentally sit on their sunglasses.
Polarized Lenses
Polarized lenses are specifically designed to minimize glare that comes from reflective surfaces like water, snow, or pavement. This feature is particularly beneficial for kids who spend a lot of time near water or in snowy environments, where glare can be intense. They reduce eye strain, which is important for maintaining good vision health over time.
Photochromic Lenses (Transition Lenses)
Photochromic lenses, also known as transition lenses, are a flexible choice for kids who frequently shift between various lighting conditions throughout the day. These lenses adapt their tint automatically in response to UV light levels. In bright sunlight, they darken to shield the eyes from glare and harmful UV rays, while in indoor or low-light settings, they revert to a clear state.
Wraparound Style
Sunglasses that feature a wraparound design or larger lenses provide more comprehensive coverage by preventing UV rays from entering the eyes from the sides. It is beneficial for kids who are frequently outdoors, as it offers an added layer of protection against indirect sunlight. Wraparound sunglasses also stay securely in place, making them ideal for active kids who are always on the move.
Comfort and Fit
It’s important that the sunglasses fit your child well and feel comfortable, as this will encourage them to wear them regularly. Look for sunglasses with adjustable or flexible frames that can adapt to your child’s face shape. If the sunglasses are too tight, they might cause discomfort and headaches; if they’re too loose, they could easily slip off during play.
Durability
Children are tough on their belongings, and sunglasses are no exception. Choosing a durable pair of sunglasses that can withstand drops, bends, and even the occasional accidental sit-down is super important. Look for frames made from bendy and strong materials like rubber or polycarbonate. Some sunglasses come with reinforced hinges that can handle frequent use without breaking.
Tips for Ensuring Your Child Wears Sunglasses
- Lead by example: Wear sunglasses yourself. Children are more likely to wear theirs if they see you doing the same.
- Make it fun: Let your child choose their own pair; they’ll be more excited to wear them.
- Teach about UV protection: Explain the importance of sun safety in simple terms. Help them understand why these precautions matter.
Denver Youth Vision: Your Family Optometrist
By purchasing high-quality infant or baby sunglasses that fit well and offer adequate UV protection, you’re taking a proactive step towards preventing risks of eye damage and ensuring a bright future for your child’s vision.
If you are searching for ‘kids optometrist near me’ or ‘eye exam for kids in Denver, CO’ we can help! We offer services in Denver, Aurora, Thornton and Hampden! Request an appointment online or call (303) 953-8801.
