When you find out that your child needs eyeglasses, one of the things you should consider is investing in a pair of prescription sunglasses for him or her as well. After all, kids spend a lot of time outdoors, exposing their eyes to harmful ultraviolet rays and light damage. When you're choosing frames for prescription sunglasses, there are a few things to consider. Here are some tips to ensure that you get the most from the investment.

Think About Durability

While you might easily think about the durability of standard eyeglasses because of how often they are worn, you might dismiss the importance of it for sunglasses. Don't dismiss your child's sunglasses as something they'll only wear once in a while, especially if he or she is particularly active.

Instead, opt for heavy-duty plastic frames. With a strong plastic frame, you won't have to worry about bent metal frames. You should also consider buying polycarbonate lenses treated for added scratch-resistance.

Give careful consideration to the ear pieces as well. Since kids don't have the same level of fine motor skills, having forgiving ear pieces that feature spring hinges can prevent broken frames. Some kids aren't necessarily the most careful about handling eyeglasses, and with prescription sunglasses, he or she will be swapping them out regularly for regular glasses. This makes durability an important consideration.

Consider the Fit

You'll also want to think about the comfort of the frame and how it fits your child's face. The sunglasses will typically be worn when your child is the most active, so you'll want something that fits comfortably, doesn't pinch, and doesn't slide.

Since a child's facial structure is still developing and may change, consider frames with adjustable nose pads. This allows you to alter the fit around the bridge to account for any changes. You also need to ensure that the ear pieces fit securely behind your child's ear. This snug fit is essential, because it helps to prevent the sunglasses from slipping while your child is out running or playing.

Choosing the right frames for your child's sunglasses is equally as important as choosing the right frames for standard eyeglasses. While you might understand the importance of these considerations for regular eyeglasses, the information presented here can help you see how it relates to choosing sunglasses too. Find out what your child is looking for in his or her new sunglasses and work with a vision care specialist to find the perfect sunglasses to suit those needs. Visit an optometrist's office, such as Wear Eyewear, for more information about choosing new eyeglasses.