Most kids' eyeglasses are made of polycarbonate. Polycarbonate is an impact-resistant material that is also used in safety lenses. These special lenses do not shatter on impact like glass or regular plastic lenses, reducing the chance of eye injuries in active kids.1 Polycarbonate is also thinner and lighter in weight than regular plastic lenses, giving the eyeglasses a better cosmetic appearance and more comfort for the kid wearing them. Polycarbonate lenses also have an added bonus: built-in ultraviolet sun protection.
Although basic polycarbonate lenses have a resistant coating, when shopping for kids' eyeglasses, you may want to spring for an upgraded scratch-resistant coating that can be applied to the surface of the lens. This coating makes the lenses even more resistant to scratching. These upgraded coatings usually come with a better warranty if the lenses do scratch. Although no lenses are scratch-proof, kids' eyeglasses with the scratch-resistant coating will generally last a little longer.
Lens tints are not generally recommended for kids' eyeglasses because the lenses may be too dark indoors and not dark enough outdoors. However, adding photochromatic lenses is a great way to avoid buying a separate pair of kids' sunglasses. Photochromatic lenses automatically darken when your child goes outside to play, and automatically lighten when they return indoors. Another alternative for kids may be a tinted "clip-on." Clip-ons are tinted lenses that are attached to the frame to block sunlight. Keep in mind, however, that a clip-on may be difficult for kids to keep up with.
Silicone nose pads are often seen on the frames of kids' eyeglasses, as they tend to be softer and more comfortable. They also have a non-slip surface that helps the eyeglasses stay in the correct position on kids' faces, ensuring good eyesight.
Spring hinges applied to kids' eyeglasses allow the frame's temple to bend outward when putting glasses on or taking them off. Kids who yank their eyeglasses off with one hand will be less likely to break them. Flexible metal frames are also available for kids' eyeglasses but tend to be more expensive.
6. Safety Glasses and Frames for Sports
Safety glasses for sports should have polycarbonate lenses that are 3 millimeters thick. If your child is planning to play sports, make sure to choose a safety frame to hold the polycarbonate lenses. Safety sports frames are made to hold up to high impact from fast-moving balls or heavy racquets. They are made of plastic or polycarbonate that will reduce injury from the frames themselves. Check to see if the frames meet ANSI standards.
For playing basketball, soccer, or tennis, children should wear sports goggles that have side shields and polycarbonate lenses. If your child needs vision correction, that can be provided in the lenses of the goggles. For baseball, children need a batting helmet that has a polycarbonate face shield. For skiing, they will need U.V. protection in glasses or goggles.
Whether your child needs corrective lenses or not, sunglasses are needed to protect their eyes from the damage of the sun's ultraviolet rays. Exposure early in life will contribute to developing cataracts, macular degeneration, and skin cancer. After the age of 6 months, all children should wear sunglasses when outside. Look for glasses that block 99 percent to 100 percent of both UVA and UVB rays. Look for polycarbonate lenses that are impact-resistant and scratch-proof. Styles that wrap-around and large glasses that cover more skin will provide more protection.
Choosing the most appropriate eyeglasses for your child is your top priority, use this guide to help you in the process— and don’t forget—your child will remember this experience, so have fun!
