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Adults are not the only ones who should wear sunglasses. Layoners offer the best tips when choosing the best shades for your kids:

Do children need shades?

Do you know that children under the age of 10 are more prone to developing eye and skin damage due to ultraviolet exposure? It’s because their eyes and eyelids are more vulnerable and sensitive than adults.

They are more susceptible to developing cataracts, macular degeneration, and surface eye diseases. Don’t think that your kids don’t need protection yet. They need protection so it’s important to buy them high-quality eyewear with 100 percent protection against UVA and UVB.

Layoners sunglasses bring you great tips on choosing the best shades for your children:

  1. Choose shades that can block 99 to 100 percent of UVA and UVB.

Your children should wear shades that offer 99 to 100 percent of UVA and UVB protection, according to Prevent Blindness America. Start them wearing shades when they reach 3 years of age. 

UVA: It is a lower-energy ultraviolet ray that can penetrate the eyes and skin. It causes tan skin, wrinkles, and “photo-aging.” It is the same UV light that causes macular degeneration and cataracts.

UVB: It is the stronger UV light that can burn the skin. The cornea can block most of the UVB from entering the eyes. However, extended exposure to it can burn the cornea leading to an eye disease called photokeratitis or snow blindness. 

  1. Choose an impact-resistant frame.

The lens for your kid’s shades should be made of polycarbonate. It is up to 10 times more impact-resistant than other lenses. 

This type of lens is advisable for kids because they are active and always playing and into sports. Polycarbonate is lightweight and good when wearing for a long period of time. 

  1. Shop for a frame that is fitted properly to them.

Kids are prone to remove their eyewear. This is why it is a very important consideration to choose shades that fit them properly. 

Your aim is to encourage them to wear it longer so they must be comfortable wearing them. Shades can protect their eyes from various elements like sand, wind, dust, and snow. Choose a design like a wrap-around or a larger frame that can cover their eyes.

  1. Make sure it is durable.

Invest in high-quality and not cheap shades for your children. You should be wary that cheap shades may provide UV protection but some may have lead in it. 

Buy high-quality shades that may be expensive but can protect the eyes of your kids. Durable shades can withstand a drop, falls, and impacts, especially that children like to have more movements. 

You can have your kid’s shades fitted with anti-scratch resistant lenses. A little addition to the cost of their shades can actually save you a lot of dollars in the long run. 

  1. Check the parts.

Make sure that their shades have spring hinges that extend beyond 90 degrees. The spring keeps the frame in the right fit preventing falls and damage. 

An elastic band at the end of the temples can avoid damaging or the loss of your kid’s shades. There is a close-fitting band that is attached to the frame and best when doing sports. Another is the loose-fitting strap that permits your child to hang their shades from the neck.

  1. Allow your child to have their choice.

If you have older children, allow them to have their own choice of shades. For toddlers and young children, make sure that you prioritize safety, protection, and durability. 

Give your kids the freedom to choose what color or style they want for shades. It increases the chance that they are going to wear each time they are outdoors.

How to encourage your children to wear shades?

Kids are great imitators. To encourage them to wear shades, you set them as an example. 

For instance, during summer, go out with a pair of shades and a hat. When they see you, they are more likely to do the same without you telling them. 

Make sure to keep your shades in the case when not in use. They are surely going to follow you too. When they know how to care for their eyewear, they are not going to lose it.