Aussie brand founded by Air Force pilot solves year-round parenting problem: 'Essential'

According to Cancer Council Australia, Australia has the highest rate of skin cancer in the world — with two in three Australians diagnosed with skin cancer in their lifetimes. That’s why on the playground, the famous ‘no hat, no play’ phrase is ingrained into our minds from a young age by parents and teachers alike.

Despite sun safety being deeply entrenched in the Aussie lifestyle, there’s one preventative measure that’s often viewed as optional: sunglasses. Professor Anne Cust, the Chair of Cancer Council’s National Skin Cancer Committee, tells Yahoo Lifestyle that repeated exposure of the eyes to ultraviolet (UV) radiation causes both short-term eye issues and permanent eye damage. And for children, this is extra important.

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“As children are more sensitive to UV radiation,” Cust explains. “We encourage parents to ensure everyone in their family is wearing appropriate sun protection, including sunglasses."

She continues, "Many of us mistakenly believe we only need to wear sunglasses on bright, sunny days. However, UV rays can penetrate clouds and can be reflective off surfaces like water and snow.

"So, eye protection is essential for you and your children whenever the UV level is three or above, regardless of the weather.”

How to prevent the risk of sun-related eye damage to children

To significantly reduce the risk of serious eye conditions in the future for your children, Cust recommends choosing close-fitting wrap-around sunglasses that meet the Australian Standards for sunglasses (categories two, three and four).

The good news is that Babiators, an Australian brand that specialises in children’s sunglasses, meets these requirements. Founded by an Air Force pilot (hence the name) and his wife, the brand was brought to life with the purpose of protecting little eyes from the lifelong effects of sun damage.

Rated as category three, Babiators’ high-quality and durable sunglasses offer 100 per cent UVA/UVB protection — making them perfect for the rough and tumble days spent on the playground, on the field or at the beach. Each pair features a stylish, comfortable fit that’s available in all of your child’s favourite colours. Plus, they’re made from BPA-free plastics, so they’re better for the environment and safe for teething bubs.

Save 20 per cent on Babiators’ kids' sunglasses

From now until the end of February, you can save up to 20 per cent on the brand’s Kids Summer Essentials kit, which includes a pair of Babiators sunnies, a fabric strap and travel case.

Designed to mix and match, all you have to do is add one of each item to your cart and you’ll automatically receive free shipping and your discount at checkout.

From the brand’s Original Keyholes and the Original Navigators to its heart- and flower-shaped styles, there’s a colour, pattern and shape that caters to every child’s taste. There are also a number of eco-friendly designs and limited editions to build out their collection.

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As well as wearing sunglasses, the Cancer Council stresses the importance of wearing protective clothing, a broad-brimmed hat, sunscreen and shade. Cust says that the combination of broad-brimmed hats and sunglasses can reduce UV radiation to the eyes by up to 98 per cent, making it crucial to add the latter to the ‘no play’ equation.

To check out the full range of Babiators’ sunglasses, head here.

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