Obviously one of the most important things for kids in the sun is making sure their suncream is topped up. However many parents are unaware of how harmful sunlight can be to children's eyes.
It's frightening to read that even babies are at risk from developing eye problems such as glaucoma later in life if there eyes are exposed to UV rays.
Optical Express have shared with me some top tips to protect your little ones from the harmful effects of UV rays...
1. Babies under the age of six months should be kept out of direct sunlight
Pushchairs can be fitted with screens or parasols to protect children whilst out and about. Yes, they're a bit of a faff but they're so important.
2. All children should wear quality, well fitting sunglasses
Parents should look for the CE mark on sunglasses which ensures the glasses have UV factor protection. We were kindly sent a pair of Kidz Banz glasses in pink for the littlest and some blue Junior Banz for my son. These brands offer 100% UV protection and the elasticated band on the smaller kids sunglasses ensures they stay put.
3. Ensure your youngsters drink plenty of fluids
This is an obvious one for staying hydrated in the sun. I hadn't given much thought to the eyes though; drinking lots of water helps your eyes maintain a healthy balance of fluid which will prevent them from becoming dehydrated and irritated.
4. Wear a hat
A hat that shades your little ones eyes will help block out harmful sunlight.
5. Consult your optician if your child already wears glasses
Many of Optical Express' children's ranges can be supplied as sunglasses. This is something I need to consider for my son who wears glasses all the time, for now when he wears sunglasses he has to take of his prescription ones.
The littlest and I popped into Optical Express at the St Enoch Centre as I needed new glasses for day-to-day. My current Tom Ford ones are all scratched now so I've chosen these Police ones as a replacement... hopefully they'll be ready soon as I can't wait to start wearing them!Disclosure - We were sent two pairs of complimentary kids sunglasses and I also received a £100 Optical Express voucher for this post. As always, opinions are honest and are my own.
