Why Prescription Sunglasses Matter for Children

And Why it’s Harder to Find Them Than You Think

 

When most people think of prescription sunglasses, they picture adults driving or enjoying the outdoors. But children also need proper eye protection—especially if they wear glasses. At Kyalami Optometrists, we’re one of the few local practices offering prescription sunglasses specifically designed for children, and it’s something more parents are starting to ask about.

Kids’ Eyes Are More Vulnerable

Children’s eyes are still developing, which makes them more sensitive to ultraviolet (UV) light. In fact, research shows that up to 80% of UV damage to the eyes happens before the age of 18. Without proper protection, UV exposure can contribute to long-term issues such as cataracts, macular degeneration, and even growths on the eye later in life.

If your child already wears prescription lenses, the problem becomes more complex. Standard sunglasses don’t help them see clearly. But going without any UV protection leaves their eyes exposed—especially during sport, holidays, and outdoor play.

Prescription Sunglasses for Kids

Prescription sunglasses combine vision correction with full UV protection, making them ideal for children who wear glasses. They help with:

  • Visual clarity outdoors – no more switching between glasses and non-prescription sunnies
  • Comfort and focus during sport or play – especially when glare becomes a distraction
  • Eye protection – reducing the risk of long-term sun-related eye damage

Despite these clear benefits, finding prescription sunglasses in child-friendly sizes and designs can be surprisingly difficult.

"An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure." — Benjamin Franklin

Why Kyalami Optometrists Offers What Others Don’t

At Kyalami Optometrists, we’ve made it a priority to stock a selection of children’s prescription sunglasses. These frames are not only built to fit smaller faces comfortably, but they’re also durable enough to handle the rough and tumble of an active child’s day. We offer a range of lens options—including polarized lenses for extra glare reduction and high UV protection.

When we test your child’s eyes, we can also guide you on whether prescription sunglasses would benefit them, and how to incorporate them into daily life—whether that’s for school sports, weekends at the pool, or family holidays.

Protect Now, Benefit Later

Prescription sunglasses for children aren’t just a luxury—they’re part of long-term eye health. By protecting their eyes now, you’re helping them avoid serious vision problems later in life.

If your child wears glasses and spends time outdoors, it’s worth considering whether they’re getting the protection they need. At Kyalami Optometrists, we’re here to help you make that decision with confidence.