Sunglasses for Sun Safety
Staying safe in the sun can be tough for little kids, especially when all they want to do is run around and have a blast. However, small steps, like choosing protective eyewear or sunglasses can help them have their fun in the sun while keeping their eyes safe from UV exposure.
According to Kids Health, “Most kids rack up between 50% and 80% of their lifetime sun exposure before age 18, so it’s important that parents teach their children how to enjoy fun in the sun safely.”
Choosing the best type of sunglasses for your children and then, encouraging them to wear them regularly can be a small step in the right direction. In case, you are a little skeptical about the use of sun glasses and kids, here’s what the Skin Cancer Foundation has to say about keeping kids’ eyes safe from the sun, “Children under age 10 are at a high risk for skin and eye damage from UVR. The skin on their eyelids and around their eyes is more delicate and vulnerable than adult skin.”
Okay, so now that we’re convinced we need to go get ‘em those sunglasses, how do we choose the right one?
Here are some ways to pick the best sun protective eye gear that kids would love to use:
1. Take Your Kids Shopping
While this one is kind of a no-brainer, you’d be surprised at how many parents don’t ask their kids about the preference when it comes to sunglasses. So, don’t make the mistake of buying a pair that your kid, especially if a tween or teen, would never want to wear. Make sure that they get to choose the design, wear it and see whether it really is comfortable and most importantly, whether they like it.
2. Identify Brands That Offer Both UVA and UVB Protection
Before you head to the stores, do a bit of your research and check out brands that offer complete protection from both UVA and UVB rays.
3. Pay Attention to the Lenses
Our kids lead very active lives. Running, jumping, playing, sliding, swinging. Yes, I know you get the point. So, make sure you pick lenses that are designed for playgrounds and kids’ lives. Plastic, scratch-resistant lenses with unbreakable frames are the best.
4. Check Fit and Finish
Finally, do a quick check to see that the lenses are clear, free of any scratches that may come from lying in a store window and that the frame fits snugly but not too tightly.
So, go ahead and shop for the best possible pair of sunglasses to keep your kids’ eyes safe from the sun without cutting down on their ‘fun in the sun’ time.
Do your children wear sunglasses when out and about?
Disclaimer: The article is not intended to replace medical advice and is strictly for informational purposes. Please check with a children’s eye specialist in case of any doubt.
Photo Credit: David Castillo Dominici
