Sunglasses for young children: there is a lot for you to know

Consider making your next baby gift a pair of sunglasses – a gift that is thoughtful, unique, practical, a gentle reminder for new parents to start sun protection early, and, hopefully, a trendsetter that others will follow.

1. Infants’ eyes absorb more harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays than adults. Infants have relatively large pupils, allowing more light to enter. And their lenses contain less pigment to absorb radiation. Moreover, infants tend to look directly into the sun – though reflexes quickly make them blink and look away. Children with fair complexions are especially vulnerable.

2. Children spend more time outdoors than adults. We get a large percentage of our lifetime sun exposure by the time we are eighteen years old. While about 80% of parents acknowledge the importance of wearing sunglasses, more than half of children seldom or never wear them. Damage is cumulative over a lifetime, causing cataracts and other eye problems later in life.

3. Sunglasses and certain hats protect eyelids and skin around the eyes. These areas have delicate skin and burn easily. Using sunscreens is impractical: children won’t hold still for you to apply it, and spray products are not recommended for the face due to risk of inhalation. Sweat, tears, and water can cause sunscreens to seep into eyes, causing burning. Use sunglasses with large lenses and that wrap around toward the ears. This prevents rays from coming in around the glasses. Dress children in sun-protective hats with brims at least three inches (7.5 centimeters) wide and that extend around the head.

4. Sunglasses also protect eyes from injury. Choose ones that are impact-resistant, made of shatterproof polycarbonate, not glass, and have flexible frames. Such frames are less likely to be damaged when children play with them or leave them where they can be stepped or sat on. Impact-resistant glasses are recommended for sports.

5. Be aware of unusual sun exposure. This can occur in cars, for example. Side and back windows may not protect against all radiation. Ask your car dealership about the option of installing transparent UV-blocking window film. Note that the sun may come from different directions as you drive. Check where the sun is when you carry an infant on your shoulder or back. Sunshields are available for strollers and carriages. (Skin- and eye-damaging UV rays may also penetrate window glass in homes, trains, buses and planes.) Infants less than six months should have no sun exposure.

6. Buy sunglasses from reputable stores that sell eyeglasses. Beware of “fun” or “novelty” sunglasses. These are mainly marketed for children’s entertainment or “self-esteem,” or so they can make a “fashion statement.” Such sunglasses are widely available on the web and at variety stores at beaches; they offer little or no UV protection. Rarely such glasses, especially ones with wide frames, may contain lead.

7. Special features to look for. All sunglasses should block 99 to 100 % of UV rays. Children’s sunglasses come in various sizes. (One size fits all adults.) Labels generally state the age range for the glasses. Comfortable fit on the nose and around ears makes children less inclined to remove them. Straps help keep glasses in place – and help prevent loss. Dark lenses are no more protective than light ones; protection results from treatment of lenses. Replace glasses when they become scratched. Good sunglasses need not be expensive. Cost mostly reflects frames, not protection. Polarized lenses reduce glare making wearing them more comfortable. Avoid heavy frames to minimize possible discomfort.

8. Being in the shade of a building while having blue sky directly overhead offers little protection. This is also true of fluffy clouds. Being under a beach umbrella protects from direct sunlight but allows considerable radiation reflected from water and sand. Dirt, grass and concrete reflect comparatively little radiation. Minimize outdoor activities between 10 AM and 2 PM when radiation is most intense.

9. Winter days in snow country are as harmful for eyes as summer days at the beach. Snow reflects up to 85% of direct sunlight; this is additive to the direct sunlight. Many winter activities take place in snow-covered hilly terrain, adding radiation from different angles. Modern winter clothing allows more time spent outdoors. Altitude increases radiation; the higher the elevation, the less atmosphere to filter out harmful rays. Cold weather and the sun low on the horizon offer little protection. Many experts recommend wearing sunglasses year-round when spending extended periods outdoors.

10. Getting young children to wear sunglasses can be a hassle. Most young children seem to enjoy them; they make everything appear more colorful. Other children are hesitant. Try various doses of age-appropriate patience, coaxing, compliments, flattery, rewards/bribery and firmness (e.g., a “no going out without them” rule). Have periods daily when all family members wear sunglasses. Point out other children wearing them. Let older children pick out their own pair. Some children, especially children with special needs (ADHD or autism, for example) may be fearful of sunglasses. Check the websites of organizations devoted to such conditions for tips to help you manage.

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