Protecting Young Eyes

Most parents are fanatics about protecting our kids from the sun. We lather on the sunscreen and try our best to keep wide-brimmed hats on their heads. What about protecting their eyes?

Such protection is essential, particularly because exposure to UV rays increases one's risk of cataracts and macular degeneration. What's more, the effects are cumulative, so early protection is key.

Sun hats are a definite help, but nothing beats sunglasses. While sunglasses usually aren't needed in the shade of a wooded hike, they're a must in many places, especially near the glare of water or snow, and at high altitudes, where the sun's rays are more intense.

What type of protection do kids' eyes need? In a nutshell, they need exactly the same protection that adults need. However, parents must strike a balance between providing good protection and not paying an arm and a leg for an item that's likely to be quickly broken or lost.

A friend of mine with three young children recently said—as she retrieved her sunglasses from beside our sandbox—"I make it a rule to never pay more than $10 for sunglasses, since they're so likely to be destroyed or lost." To me, this is the perfect policy for sunglasses for both parents of young children and kids.

The big question is: Can such a feat be accomplished for $10 or less?

Where to Start
The good news is that yes, you can buy decent sunglasses for your kids for $10 or less. They're everywhere: drugstores, Wal-Mart, Target, etc. More expensive models abound, of course, since many makers of adult sunglasses also offer kids' styles, although you'll obviously pay more for such name brands.

Remember, however, that not all cheap sunglasses are created equal. Some are definitely better than others. No matter what price you end up paying, here are important features to look for:

Full Protection. Look for 99 to 100 percent protection from both UVA and UVB rays—the same protection you'd seek for yourself. Check labels carefully—some lenses of children's sunglasses seem so light and transparent that they appear virtually worthless.

Comfort. Take your child shopping with you, because you want to make sure any sunglasses you purchase are not only comfortable, but the right size. If you get these two factors right, your child is more likely to wear the shades and less likely to lose them.

Durability. This is one of the most important aspects of sunglasses for kids. First, check the frame: Is it likely to easily be broken or snapped apart? How much banging around can it tolerate? Next, take a look at the stability of the hinges. Hold the frame in one hand, while gently wiggling the side stem with the other. If the sunglasses seem wobbly or unstable at the hinges, forget them—they will soon fall apart. This is of special concern with young children, who are more likely to swallow screws or shove detached stems down their throats.