Sunglasses
Overexposure to the sun can cause short- and long-term damage to the eyes. Protection of the eyes is especially important for children since the lens of the eye is not able to completely protect the retina from the harmful effects of ultraviolet (UV) rays until approximately 30 years of age.
The percentage of the UV filtered out by sunglasses often is printed on the label. Inexpensive sunglasses that provide 100 percent UV protection can be found at local variety stores, grocery stores, and department stores.
Students and staff who wear prescription glasses can have an UV coating added to their lenses.
To promote sunglasses:
- Encourage everyone to wear sunglasses that filter out 100 percent of UV rays.
- Solicit the help of student leaders (e.g., student council, cheerleaders) to promote the wearing of sunglasses among their peers.
- Sell UV-protective sunglasses with the school colors and logo.
- Offer awards each month for the class with the most students wearing sunglasses every day.
