What To Look For
"Overexposure to UV rays is quite serious and can lead to cataracts, macular degeneration, or, in some cases, skin cancer around the eyelids," said Sarah Hinkley, O.D., the American Optometric Association's UV protection expert. Kids get as much as 80 percent of their eye exposure to the sun before age 18, so look for sunglasses that keep 99 to 100 percent of UV-A and UV-B radiation and 75 to 90 percent of visible light out of the eyes. Sunglasses with wraparound straps to keep them on are particularly important for very young children and babies. The color of the lens matters less, but the AOA recommends gray lenses because they "reduce light intensity without altering the color of objects to provide the most natural color vision."
Common Pitfalls
Purchasing sunglasses just for style reasons or to please a child's taste in cartoon characters is a common mistake parents make. While many parents purchase sunglasses for their children, they rarely check the amount of UV protection the glasses provide. Look for glasses that say "UV400" on the label or sticker on the sunglasses. These will provide optimal protection. Make an effort to purchase sunglasses your child likes so that she will wear them. Another pitfall is not consulting your eye doctor about sunglasses. Your eye doctor may have recommendations for your child that will keep her eyes safe.
Where To Buy
Sunglasses for kids can be purchased at most department and discount stores as well as many kids clothing stores online. Amazon.com and Diapers.com offer many choices for children, but if your child is a little older, you may want to take him along and allow him to choose a pair. Your eye doctor's office may also be a good place to start. Sporting goods and outdoor equipment stores also offer many styles of sunglasses with varying degrees of protection, so be sure to read labels, no matter what the price.
Cost
Sunglasses that provide children with adequate UV-A and B protection can be found at price points between $10 and $50. Most sunglasses for kids that provide the best protection and wraparound band features can be purchased in the $20 range both online and off.
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