Sun Safety for Little Eyes: Why Sunglasses Are a Must for Your Child

Aussie parents are on top of their game when protecting their children's skin from harmful rays. We slop on the sunscreen and make hats a must-have. We draw the shade over the stroller seat, seek out the shady spots, and slip on a shirt or rashie to cover little bodies, even when it's cloudy.

But are we doing enough when caring for their eyes? Sliding on sunglasses is a game changer for little eyes, and they will thank you for it now and later in life!

Did you know that:

1. Kids get three times more annual UV exposure than we do. It is because they spend more time outside, burning off their energy during school recess, sports, and playtime.

2. Children have larger pupils and clearer lenses than adults, making their young eyes more prone to sun damage.

3.Unlike adult eyes, children's eyes are still maturing and cannot effectively filter out harmful UV rays.

4. Young eyelids and skin around the eye are more delicate and vulnerable than adults.

5. UV damage doesn't happen overnight, and long-term eye problems like cataracts and macular degeneration (blurry vision, dull colours, blind spots, etc.) build over time. So while the impact may not be felt in childhood, early exposure to UV can have a significant impact on adult life.

6. Kids are susceptible to short-term photokeratitis or snow blindness, which feels like having a sunburned eye and happens when UV rays reflect off snow, ice, water and even sand.

For these reasons, our main objective should be sun safety and early eye protection. And prevention before cure is the BABIATORS way.

Research indicates that babies as young as six months should start wearing sunglasses, and we agree.

And there is one extra bonus of starting them early: They get used to wearing them, and a lifetime habit of protecting their eyes begins! It may feel strange to put sunnies on a baby, but the earlier, the better to build the habit.

And OMG! Have you seen how cute sunnies on a baby are?! Naawwwwwww!

Protect them from a young age, and you can rest easy knowing that your little one's eyes are getting the best possible start for the years to come.

Do they need sunnies all the time? Not necessarily. Light sun exposure is healthy. Give yourself the grace to introduce sunnies a little at a time, at times when it matters. Even 30 minutes a day less exposure, e.g., just on car rides or walks in the pram, is enough to reduce their UV exposure while still enjoying all the sunshine time your lifestyle desires.

And remember that it is never too late to start, and whether buying for a baby or treading new waters with your older kids, keep these tips handy when shopping for sunnies:

100% UVA and UVB protection

Look for labels that meet the Australian and New Zealand safety standards, such as AS/NZS 1067.1:2016. These are the safety requirements for sunglasses in Aus & NZ, and Category 3 lenses ensure a good level of UV protect and shading of the eye.

Made to play

Children's sunglasses should be sturdy, fit snugly, and ready for a day at the beach, sports, and play. Look for comfy, flexible frames and shatter- and impact-resistant lenses that won't break when you bend, twist, or step on them.

A large lens shape

It will cover all of the eye, including the delicate skin around it, where applying sunscreen can be tricky.

BPA-free plastics

So, no sweat if they end up in your baby's mouth!

Optimal fit

It's a no-brainer for sun protection and keeping those glasses where they belong. Shop lightweight sunglasses made from soft materials that don't pinch the temples or nose.

Let them choose

Kids are more likely to wear sunnies if they can choose their own. Let them join in the fun of selecting from a few pairs.

Set a new standard for sun safety and make wearing sunnies part of everyone’s routine.

Babiators make for the coolest sun safety option around. The sunny adventures you can have, the cuteness and style that so many people will comment on, all while keeping little eyes safe, make sunglasses your next favourite purchase for your little one.

Browse our Babiators range of kid-approved sunglasses, hats, sunscreen applicator, and rashies and develop sun-safe habits that will last a lifetime.