According to the American Optometric Association, more than 40,000 Americans experience eye injuries each year related to sports and recreational activities*. This number can be reduced by 90% if the right precautionary actions are taken*. Children ages 15 and younger make up for 43% of the eye injuries related to sports*. That’s more than 17,000 children injured yearly due to a lack of the proper protective eyewear.

The 2002 National Health Survey states that 84.6% of children do not utilize protective eyewear in situations that represent a risk to eye injury.  It is essential to explain to your child the importance of wearing protective eyewear for their health and future wellbeing.  As a parent, you can help prevent your child from having an eye injury and make his or her athletic experiences enjoyable while keeping them safe.

If worn correctly, protective eyewear can help your child maintain his or her sight and stay injury free. The correct lenses to use in all dynamic activities, whether recreational or competitive, are 3mm polycarbonate (plastic) lenses, which are impact resistant, thin and lightweight. Polycarbonate lenses are available with and without a prescription, so encourage your child to wear them even if their eyesight is excellent.

When looking to purchase protective eyewear for your child, it’s a great idea to know about each sport and the risk involved. Sports are ranked in three different categories based on the level of physical contact, with the recommended lens depending on the amount of potential impact.

Most eye doctors and dispensaries can assist in selecting and ordering the appropriate protective eyewear, or can refer you to a dispensary specializing in these types of lenses. With this information you will be able to sit on the sidelines cheering your little one on, feeling confident their eyes are being cared for in the best possible way. 

*American Optometric Association