kids Sunglasses

Children may not be as interested as adults are in the fashion aspect of But because kids spend much more time than most adults do outdoors and in direct sunlight, protection for the eyes is extra important.

In fact, many experts believe our eyes get 80 percent of their total lifetime exposure to the sun’s UV rays by age 18. And since excessive lifetime exposure to UV radiation has been linked to the development of and other eye problems, it’s never too early for kids to begin wearing good quality sunglasses outdoors.

Recent studies have shown that the earlier children start wearing eye protection while outdoors the better their chances of avoiding major eye health problems later in life. 

• Damage to the eyes is cumulative, increasing from year to year. 
• The sun’s ultraviolet (UV) radiation can be very harmful to unprotected eyes and almost half of a person’s total lifetime UV radiation exposure occurs before age 18. 
• Young eyes let more UV rays inside and normally get more exposure because they spend more time outdoors, usually without eye protection. 
• Exposure to sunlight at an early age appears to be a critical factor in the development of eye cancer.

The good news is that high quality children’s sunglasses (kids aged 11 and up) are easier to find than ever. Modeled after adult versions, they feature high impact-resistant lenses with sturdy, durable frames and lots of great colors.

• Look for polycarbonate since this is the most shatter-resistant. 
• Always make sure to buy sunglasses that block 99% to 100% of both UVA and UVB.