The threat of the sun’s harm to our eye is just the same as it is to our skin. The fact that the ultraviolet (UV) rays of the sun are damaging to all the layers of our eyes, sunglasses are truly necessary to wear. Everybody is advised to wear sunglasses especially when outdoors. As early as infancy, wearing of sunglasses is advised.

Children’s eyes are more susceptible to any eye damages caused by too much exposure to the sun. Their lenses do not block as much UV rays as adults do.

Children’s sunglasses don’t have to be expensive. The sunglasses should have 100% UVA and UVB protection created by chemicals in the lenses. Stick to the recommended UV protection not by the darkness of the lenses. The lenses should be dark brown or black. No any other color is recommended.

Just as how you protect your children’s skin from UV rays, eye protection should be taken seriously. Make sure the sunglasses fit properly and are comfortable. Buying the proper sunglasses won’t do any good if your children won’t wear them. If your children do not like wearing their sunglasses (even with straps), insist that a wide-brimmed hat that shades their face can go with their sunglasses.

Children’s sunglasses should be made of polycarbonate to protect against possible shattering. Polycarbonate lenses are used in quality sunglasses that incorporate filters to block ultra-violet (UV) rays and near-UV rays. The main advantage of polycarbonate is the unbeatable strength, durability and distortion-free combined with light weight. While a glass-made sunglasses is not recommended because it puts a risk for potential eye injury if in case it breaks. Ensure as well that you check the sunglasses for bubbles or distortions that could cause squinting, blinking, headaches and dizziness.

Be an example to your children. Wear sunglasses as well when outdoors. Make this a part of your child care responsibility. Encourage your children to wear the sunglasses because the more time the eyes are exposed to harmful UV rays, the more likely to suffer vision problems in the future.