Can Sunlight Damage a Toddler's Eyes? by Kay Ireland, Demand Media

You slather your toddler's sensitive skin in sunscreen to protect her from the sun's rays, but your toddler's eyes can be just as sensitive to the sun and there's no lotion that can help. By understanding the ways the sun can damage your toddler's eyes, you can choose protection to keep his eyes safe and healthy.

Short-term Risks

Children are especially at risk for sun damage to the eyes because they typically spend more time in the sun, according to the American Optometric Association. The sun emits UV rays, which are a type of radiation. When exposed to high amounts of UV rays, a toddler can experience photokeratitis, which is essentially a sunburn of the eye. The condition is short-lived and causes mild pain and discomfort, such as a gritty and burning sensation in the eyes.

Long-term Issues

While photokeratitis doesn't have any lasting effects on your toddler's eye, excessive and frequent exposure to UV rays can have long-term effects. The AOA warns that too much sun over time can result in the possibility of a cataract and could cause damage to the retina, both which can result in vision problems and the necessity for surgery in the future. The more your toddler's eyes are exposed to UV rays, the higher his risk for sun-related vision issues in the future.

Eye Protection

While you can't put sunscreen on a child's eyes, you can use methods to protect your toddler's vision. Some toddlers are happy to slip on a pair of UV-protection sunglasses -- look for wraparound models that protect the entire eye and that stay on your toddler's head easily. If your little one won't wear sunglasses, try a hat with wide brim to keep the sun out of his eyes while he's busy playing, suggests the Skin Cancer Foundation.

Sun Smarts

While you don't need to hide from the sun, it's important that your toddler learns how to be sun smart from the start. By cautioning him against looking directly at the sun, finding shade and explaining the use of sunscreen, sunglasses and hats, your toddler can become more enthusiastic about sun safety and less likely to damage to his sensitive eyes. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, one-quarter of lifetime sun exposure happens during childhood. By teaching your toddler sun safety, he can play outside and you can worry less.