When your child reaches 6 months of age, they should wear sunglasses. Older children should wear sunglasses when they are outside in any environment. If your child needs prescription glasses, they should also wear prescription sunglasses. Even if a baby closes their eyes to protect them from the sun, their thin eyelids can burn. And since the skin is so transparent, some sunlight can still reach the retina. Babies need sunglasses to protect their delicate eyes and the skin around their eyes.