Should You Buy Your School-Age Child Blue Light Glasses?

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Over the last few years, trends reports have shown a steady increase in children’s eye issues in direct relation to excess screen time. Compared to a few years ago, school-age kids, in particular, clock in more hours in front of digital devices every day. This is due to the fact that most kids rely on these screens for a variety of tasks, ranging from personal entertainment to educational learning. 

Additionally, the rising accessibility of such devices means kids’ screen time is harder to monitor. As it is, a recent study found that up to 91% of all British kids own a smartphone. Per the UK Parliament, screen time from this young demographic has spiked by around 52% in these last few years.

Among the biggest concerns that this excessive screen time brings is the exposure to the blue light that said devices emit. While the precise data on how this visible light spectrum affects children is still limited, there is enough evidence to posit that too much of this can be detrimental to developing individuals. As such, it stands to reason that guardians will want to err on the side of safety. One great way to start is by implementing screen time management strategies at home, such as establishing tech-free zones, encouraging outdoor activities, and limiting device use to a set number of hours each day.

With technology now necessary for a number of tasks, however, screen time can’t be eliminated altogether. In these cases, giving school-age children blue light protectors can help further limit exposure during times when they truly need to use digital devices. Nowadays, one of the most popular options you can get to this end comes in the form of eyewear.

What are blue light glasses?

As their name implies, blue light glasses are a type of eyewear wherein the lenses have been coated with a special filter. On retailer Glasses Direct’s selection of these specs, these filters are described as being “anti-reflection.” This means that they can prevent the aforementioned rays from penetrating into the eyes while also blocking glare that is common from bright sources like screens. Additionally, these can increase contrast when looking at screens and other devices, thereby providing enhanced visual comfort and confidence.

Typically, these glasses come with clear lenses, but they can be upgraded with tints to suit the wearer’s needs. They can also be worn with and without prescriptions. In some cases, they can even work with multifocal prescriptions. As a result, they can really be worn by virtually anyone. Given this versatility, blue light specs can be worn virtually anywhere, making them easy to integrate into everyday routines and needs.

How can they help school-age kids?

In terms of school-age children, blue light glasses can be of particular benefit since the eye protection they offer can extend to help improve a child’s concentration and comfort. For starters, too much blue light exposure has been linked to sleep disturbances. This is because blue light is believed to have an effect on a person’s circadian rhythm. For young kids, poor sleep can easily impact their moods, focus, and cognition. Over time, this can result in lacklustre academic performance and even social struggles. Naturally, blue light glasses can help prevent this, as a child wearing them is less susceptible to their effects.

Following this, there’s also the added UV protection that certain blue light specs providers offer. Consequently, they can prevent highly damaging UVB and UVA rays from damaging the eyes. It’s important to note that kids are especially vulnerable to ocular sun damage, as the natural protective lens in their eyes is still in development. Without such added protection, they’re likely to develop different eyesight problems, such as corneal sunburns. Of course, blue light glasses shouldn’t be considered direct replacements for shades. Dedicated sunglasses are still best for any extended period of time under the sun. According to the NHS, models with wraparound lenses or wide arms work best since they provide extra coverage. Thankfully, brands like Ray-Ban and Oakley have styles specially made for younger consumers, so your school-age child can easily find a pair they’ll enjoy.