YOUTH AND UV PROTECTION

Well, we are finally getting all that sunshine we were missing here in Southern Alberta. Look outside. We constantly see adults wearing sunglasses, but how often do you see kids protecting their eyes from the sun?

Harmful UV rays affect everyone’s eyes, but we often forget that our children’s eyes are more vulnerable than our own. This is due to the fact that children’s eyes lack pigment in the lens of the eyes which help filter UV rays. Conditions such as cataracts and retinal degeneration are often attributed to prolonged exposure to UV rays during a lifetime.

Wearing sunglasses as protection is extremely important but sometimes our kids are against wearing them. Here are some tips to help get them in a sunglass-wearing routine:

1 . Set a Good Example –

Continually wear your own sunglasses. This lets your children know that you enjoy wearing your sunglasses as well.

2. Let them pick their Glasses –

Your child is more likely to wear the glasses they picked out themselves.

3. Invest in Multiple Pairs –

Keep multiple pairs in different locations, so you always have a pair on hand.

4. Practice Indoors –

Let your child get used to the fit and feel of the sunglasses with the comfort of being indoors.

5. Make it known that certain activities require Sunglasses –

Keep a routine that going to the park, or playing outside for any length of time means sunglasses need to be worn as “required equipment”.

6. Clean the Lenses –

Make sure your child can see clearly by cleaning the lenses regularly. The best way to clean your lenses is to use an approved eyeglass lens cleaner and cloth.