Going Out to Play: The Importance of Durable Frames and Outdoor Time for Kids
- BY Catherine Ong
- IN Kids
As the sun shines and kids eagerly head outside to play, it’s crucial to ensure they have eyewear that can keep up with their active lifestyles. Durable frames and lenses are essential for children who are constantly on the move, providing both safety and comfort. In this blog, we’ll talk about some key features to look for when choosing eyewear for your little ones and the importance of outdoor time for myopia prevention.
Photo from Pexels by RUN 4 FFWPU
Key Features of Durable Eyewear for Children
Here are some features to look for when you’re shopping for your child’s next frames:
- Attachable Strap: Consider frames with an attachable strap that can secure the glasses to the back of the head, providing added stability and preventing loss during active play.
- Slip-Resistant Frames: Look for frames with rubberized nose pads and temple tips to prevent slipping during playtime activities.
- Impact-Resistant Lenses: Opt for lenses made of polycarbonate or Trivex, which are highly durable and less likely to shatter upon impact, reducing the risk of eye injury.
- Photochromic Lenses: Photochromic lenses are a great option for kids who spend time both indoors and outdoors. These lenses darken in response to sunlight exposure, providing UV protection and reducing glare, while remaining clear indoors.
Ensuring that children have the right eyewear can help protect their eyes during outdoor activities while providing the visual clarity they need to enjoy their adventures safely.
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The Importance of Outdoor Time for Children’s Vision
In addition to durable eyewear, outdoor time plays a vital role in maintaining children’s vision health, especially for those at risk of developing myopia (nearsightedness). Prolonged near work and indoor time has been shown to induce and worsen myopia, especially in growing children. While there are no definitive guidelines regarding the amount of time children should spend outdoors, research suggests that increased outdoor time can delay the onset and progression of myopia.
Encouraging children to engage in activities that promote distance viewing can help support their visual development and reduce the risk of myopia. Here are some tips for making the most of outdoor time:
- Encourage Distance Viewing: Encourage activities that involve looking at objects in the distance, such as playing catch, flying a kite, or going for nature walks.
- Limit Near Work: Limit the amount of time spent on activities that require close-up focus, such as reading or using electronic devices, during outdoor playtime. Reading outdoors is not the same as playing catch outdoors.
By incorporating these simple strategies into your child’s routine, you can help protect their vision and promote healthy eye development. For durable eyewear options designed to withstand the demands of active kids, check out Zenni’s collection of Durable Glasses.
