The age group that most needs sunglasses is the least likely to wear them.  Infants and children are actually at increased risk for sun damage to the eyes because their relatively large pupils allow more damaging ultraviolet light to get in.  Excessive ultraviolet (UV) light “oxidizes,” which means causes wear and tear on the retina and other tissues of the eye, increasing the risk of two problems later on in adulthood:  cataracts and macular degeneration.  As children grow and reach teen time, the lens of the eyes is able to screen out more damaging UV light.

Picking sunglasses for those little peepers:  Ophthalmologists recommend you look for glasses labeled “blocks 99 percent of UV rays” or “meets American National Standards Institute requirements.” Above all, avoid toy sunglasses, especially the really dark ones.  These can actually be more damaging, because the pupils dilate and let more UV light enter. If you child refuses to wear them, don some funky ones yourself and your child will likely want to copy.  For added eye protection, teach your child to never look directly at the sun, and get him used to wearing baseball caps or hats that shade those growing and sensitive eyes.