Protect your child’s eyes from sun damage by following these ten simple guidelines for choosing infant or children’s sunglasses:
1. Only purchase sunglasses that are proven to block 100% UVA and UVB rays.
2. Understand polarized lenses. Polarized lenses do not provide UV protection unless they are specially treated with a UV coating. Polarized lenses are great for high glare conditions but they can also distort vision. For example, we only offer polarized lenses on our Xtreme Sports Glasses for children 7-12.
3. Check sunglass lenses for scratches, bubbles and distortions. Flaws in the lenses can result in squinting, tearing and headaches.
4. Children and infant sunglasses should be impact-resistant and frames should be bendable, unbreakable and/or have snap on temples. The glasses need to stand up to the bouncing and tumbling lifestyle of kids.
5. Look for sunglasses with lenses and frames made from polycarbonate, the most impact-resistant material available.
6. Consider wrap-around designs that guard against peripheral light to minimize UV exposure.
7. Make sure the sunglasses deliver a snug and comfortable fit. If the sunglasses don’t feel good your child won’t wear them. Infants should wear banded sunglasses, which are also great for older children during sport activities.
8. Do not buy opaque sunglasses – especially for small children and babies who can’t talk. They communicate through their eyes and you want to be able to see them at all times.
9. Purchase sunglasses from quality manufacturers who stand by their products. Real Kids Shades offers a 100% replacement guarantee.
10. Teach by example and wear your sunglasses whenever you are outside.
For more sun safety tips, please visit our Facebook Fan Page. “Like” us to join our community of parents serious about their children’s health and safety. We are currently offering a 20% discount on our infant Sun Hat and Sunglasses Combo to our Facebook fans.