This article will focus on the importance of protective eyewear for children. We’ll also give our thoughts on the sunglasses from Real Kids Shades, who provided us with 3 pair of sunglasses in order to review. They also provided us with many of the facts found in this article.
Most people know and understand the risks of various cancers associated with prolonged sun exposure. They buy sunscreen, beauty products with SPF protection and UV protective clothing. They lather their children up with sunblock at the beach and reapply as needed. Too many parents stop there and think nothing else of it.
Unlike skin cells, eye lenses cannot repair themselves.
One area that is commonly neglected when it comes to sun protection is the eyes. Wearing protective eyewear can help prevent several serious risks:
- Cancer around the eyelids
- Snow Blindness
- Cataracts
- Photokeratitis – sunburn of the cornea
- Macular degeneration
- Pterygium
Wearing UV protective sunglasses is something adults do mostly for fashion, not always thinking of the risk prevention. Many parents buy sunglasses as an accessory for their children – mainly for the cute factor. While this is a great gesture, the chosen eyewear isn’t always a good choice in regards to protection.
Did you know children’s eyes are at increased risk for permanent eye damage from sunlight until they’re at least 10-years-old?
There are 10 guidelines to keep in mind when it comes to buying protective eyewear for kids.
- Only purchase sunglasses that are proven to block 100% of both types of ultraviolet rays: UV-A and UV-B. A UV 400 rating is ideal. Research the brand online and confirm they’ve been third party tested to filter out 100% of UV-A and UV-B radiation and contain no phthalates, lead or bisphenol A.
- Check lenses carefully for scratches, bubbles and distortions. Flaws in the lenses can cause can result in squinting, tearing and headaches.
- Select sunglasses that match your child’s active lifestyle. They should be impact-resistant and frames should be bendable, unbreakable and/or have snap on temples.
- Look for sunglasses with polycarbonate lenses and frames, the most impact-resistant material available. Acrylic lenses can shatter. Beware. Many polarized kids sunglasses have acrylic lenses.
- Consider wrap-around designs that guard against peripheral UV rays. Peripheral UV light is just as damaging to children’s eyes as direct light. Re ective light, from snow or water, is also as damaging.
- Make sure the sunglasses deliver a snug, comfortable t. Avoid sunglasses that are too tight or too loose for your child’s head. For babies and super active kids, banded solutions that t under hats and helmets are best.
- 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.
- Wear your sunglasses. Remember, sunglasses are not an accessory; they’re a necessity. When you wear yours regularly, your kids will follow your example.
- Buy from manufacturers that stand behind their sunglasses. The best brands back their sunglasses with strong replacement guarantees.
- Know the pros and cons of polarized lenses. Unless they’re speci ally treated with UV coating, polarized lenses don’t o er UV protection. Polarization helps to protect against high glare light conditions. However, polarized lenses also distort vision. Many children’s eye care specialists believe polarized lenses can be dangerous for young children just learning to walk. This is one reason why Real Kids Shades only polarizes the lenses on our Xtreme Sports styles for 7-12-year-olds.
Speaking of Real Kids Shades…
Dameon received 3 pairs of sunglasses from Real Kids Shades. See, I’m one of those parents who wasn’t as up to speed on eye protection as I should have been. The only time I really made sure he was wearing sunglasses was when we were at the beach. But now I know he needs to wear them anytime he’s outside. During sports, play time, even walking into a store. His eyesight, though often taken for granted, is precious.
The first thing I love about Real Kids Shades is their prices. Each pair of sunglasses they offer is affordable. The most expensive pair I saw was still under $50.00 and is really 2 pairs of sunglasses in one. They’re the Xtreme Convertible sunglasses, and my sons favorite. They come in a sturdy protective case along with a band that can be used to convert them easily to sports glasses. Some features of the Xtreme Convertible that are worth pointing out:
- Lightweight, so even during sports they wont interfere with performance.
- The Rubber-Grip Temple wont irritate or rub the skin, but holds the sunglasses in place.
- Foam-backed frames, so they don’t rub against the face and irritate it.
- Shatterproof polycarbonate lenses – so they stand up to the roughest play.
- UV400 category-3 Revo lenses – so they protect the eyes from harmful UV rays all day long.
- Also, the lens can be prescription, so that’s a great bonus for kids who wear prescription glasses and play sports.
Each pair of sunglasses we received from Real Kids Shades was fantastic. They are made to fit a child’s face perfectly and withstand the rough and tumble that comes along with them. They have shades available for all ages (newborn to 12 years old.) They’re high quality and fashionable; all while protecting their eyes and vision. Yes, I’m impressed!
Shop & Connect with Real Kids Shades
Head over and check out all that Real Kids Shades has to offer, and start protecting your little ones eyes today! Connect with them on Facebook, Twitter & YouTube.
About Amber Killmon
