How to protect children’s eyes from UV exposure and other hazards- The Week

As children embrace the joy of summer—with its endless sunshine, outdoor games, and digital entertainment—their eyes are susceptible to several seasonal hazards that parents often overlook.

While sunscreen and hydration are common concerns, eye health deserves equal attention. Prolonged UV exposure, increased allergen levels, digital eye strain, and potential injuries from outdoor play can all pose risks to children’s developing vision. Proactive care, smart choices, and protective gear can go a long way in ensuring a safe and healthy summer for your child’s eyes.

Shield from sun

Just like skin, children’s eyes are also vulnerable to ultraviolet (UV) radiation. Prolonged exposure can increase their risk of cataracts and age-related macular degeneration later in life. Children spend more time outdoors than adults and their ocular lenses allow more UV to penetrate the retina. It is critical to equip them with sunglasses that offer 99–100% UVA and UVB protection. Choose wraparound designs for added coverage, and make it a habit for kids to wear their sunglasses during all daytime outdoor activities, even when it is cloudy.

Allergy awareness

Summer also brings a spike in eye allergies due to high pollen counts, dust, and air pollution. Children may experience persistent redness, itchiness, and watery eyes, which can significantly affect their comfort and concentration. Over-the-counter antihistamine drops can help in mild cases, but severe symptoms should be assessed by an ophthalmologist. Unchecked allergic reactions can lead to chronic inflammation or even corneal complications. Avoiding allergens, using air purifiers indoors, and rinsing eyes with clean water after outdoor play are practical preventive steps.

Hygiene matters

Hot and humid summer weather fosters the growth of bacteria and viruses that can trigger conjunctivitis, commonly known as pink eye. This highly contagious infection spreads swiftly among children in shared spaces like playgrounds and camps.

Reinforce frequent handwashing and discourage eye rubbing to prevent transmission. Parents should be vigilant for symptoms such as red, itchy, or crusty eyes and seek medical attention early to prevent complications. Good hygiene habits remain the frontline defense against most summer-related eye infections.

Play it safe

Active play is essential for a child’s development, but it can also be hazardous for their eyes. Summer sports like cricket, tennis, and cycling pose a high risk of impact injuries. Preventable trauma from getting smacked by a projectile or unexpected object accounts for nearly 90% of eye injuries in kids.

Encourage the use of polycarbonate sports goggles that resist impact and offer UV protection. Such protective eyewear should be as routine as helmets or pads, especially during high-speed or contact activities, to safeguard against permanent vision loss.

Digital eye care

With school holidays and longer days, screen time often surges during summer, leading to digital eye strain and dry eye issues. The 20/20/20 rule—taking a 20-second break to look at something 20 feet away every 20 minutes—helps prevent fatigue.

Encourage frequent blinking and ensure children stay hydrated to support tear film stability. Limiting screen use before bedtime also promotes better sleep and healthier eyes. A balanced routine of screen and outdoor time ensures kids enjoy summer fun without compromising their vision.

Dr Ajay Sharma is the Founder & CMD of Eye-Q Super Speciality Hospital

The opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not purport to reflect the opinions or views of THE WEEK