Sun Protection for Families: Tips for Getting Kids to Wear Sunglasses

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However, findings from the American Academy of Dermatology found that Gen Z, despite being "obsessed" with skincare, isn't investing enough in sun protection. The AAD survey found that 52% of Gen Z adults ages 18 to 26 are unaware of key sunburn risks, such as increased skin cancer risk and premature aging.

As such, it's important to imbue sun protection habits at an early age. At the same time, the gradual increase in Gen Z parents may mean the tips we'll be sharing today can be helpful.

In a previous post on spring break fun, we highlighted some tips for taking beach trips with the family, including packing the essentials: sunscreen, hats, plenty of water, beach toys, and what-have-you. When it comes to sun protection, one of the most popular tools is a good pair of sunglasses. Unfortunately, getting kids to wear sunglasses can be quite a challenge. Below, we'll be sharing some tips for getting kids to wear sunglasses:

Get matching sunglasses

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One of the best ways to get your child to wear sunglasses on a sunny day out or for a beach trip is to plan fun, matching shades for the family. This is also a good opportunity for you to set an example, as seeing you wear sunglasses yourself can act as a motivator for the child to want to wear their own pair, too.

You can find matching kids' sunglasses for your model or play around by simply matching colors or lens shapes if there isn't a junior collection for your favorite type or brand of shades. For moms, you can easily find sunglasses for women that match the style, color, or shape of your child's sunglasses — or vice versa. Retailer Eyebuydirect has fun frames like the aviator-like Good Vibrations, or the Safari which comes in fun colorways like Clear Blue or Tortoise. If you're looking to match your kids' sunglasses, you can also opt for fun designs like the heart-shaped Sun Amore.

Let them choose their shades

On the flip side, depending on your children's age group, letting them choose their own sunglass design or model may be a good chance to practice independence and cultivate individuality. While younger toddlers may not mind matching shades with you, older kids may want to have their own say when it comes to choosing their sunglasses.

Luckily, there are a lot of options for children's sunglasses today. One of the best ways to motivate your child to stick to their sunglasses is to match the shades with their interests. For example, Coral Eyewear recently expanded its collection of children's eyewear with Paddington-themed glasses and sunglasses. These feature the recognizable animated bear on the outside of the frames, along with colors inspired by Paddington's blue duffle coat, red hat, and favorite orange marmalade. Of course, there's a host of other options for kid-friendly, character-based sunglasses you can find on the market that will fit your child's taste.

Consider sunglasses straps

 

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Finally, it's important to determine why your child may not enjoy or want to wear sunglasses. One of the most common problems, for example, is that they may end up losing, misplacing, or breaking the pair of sunglasses. A good solution is to find them shades that fit their heads perfectly — which is why wraparound styles are popular choices.

Another option that can help is to get adjustable straps for their sunglasses. This will ensure the shades are always with them, and the added accessory may make wearing the shades more appealing to them. Nowadays, many brands offer straps, lanyards, and chains to go with their sunglasses, and you might even find adorable charms of your child's favorite animals or cartoon characters. Beyond that, you can also find third-party brands and options for sunglasses straps or chains.

Author Bio: Greg Gardner is a freelance writer and editor, but he’s first and foremost a proud father to three children. When he and his wife Sharon aren’t busy with work, they enjoy picnicking in the park with their kids and their beagle, Buster.