Things are looking up for Monday’s total solar eclipse. While there’s been plenty written about the ins and outs of witnessing this remarkable experience, there’s still been some confusion about when to don the glasses, what types of glasses to wear and the unfortunate results if you don’t.
Since most youngsters will be in school when the eclipse takes place, teachers are already well-versed in the protocol for their students. But it doesn’t hurt to go over those plans with your kids.
Thanks to Children’s Health, here are the six recommendations on eclipse observing for kids of all ages:
- Wear eclipse glasses that are ISO approved to protect your eyes.
- Make sure eclipse glasses fit properly.
- Make sure glasses aren’t damaged.
- Test your glasses.
- Have a conversation with kids about the importance of keeping their glasses on.
- Do not use unfiltered binoculars or a telescope.
They’re all important, but #5 needs to be emphasized because you just know like Lot‘s wife, someone is going to be tempted to sneak a peek. Instead of turning into a pillar of salt, Children’s explains:
“If your child looks directly at the sun during the eclipse, they could experience permanent eye damage known as solar retinopathy. According to the American Association for Pediatric Ophthalmology, this condition happens when intense light damages the retina. Symptoms of solar retinopathy include:
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- “A blind spot in one or both eyes
- “Seeing abnormal colors
- “Warped vision
- “Headaches
“These symptoms typically appear a few hours after the injury happens. Since the retina doesn’t have pain receptors, a child would not know when the injury is happening in real time. If your child has any of these symptoms, visit an ophthalmologist (eye doctor) quickly. They will be able to assess your child’s eyes and share the best next steps.”
* Photo courtesy of Children's Health