Your Baby’s Vision
Your baby’s vision is one of the most precious senses they’ll develop and it happens right from birth! In this post we take a closer look at how your baby’s eyesight progresses in the first year, what checks are in place, and what signs suggest something needs a closer look.
The First Year
A baby’s vision develops rapidly in their first 12 months of life:
👶 At birth: Your newborn can see shapes, faces, and strong contrasts of light and dark, but their world is still blurry. They are drawn to bright colours and large shapes.
👀 By 4 months: Depth perception starts to develop. Your baby may begin to follow moving objects with their eyes and start recognising familiar faces from a distance.
🎯 Around 12 months: Their vision will have matured to almost adult-like levels - they can see fine details, track movement smoothly, and coordinate their eyes with their hands and body as they start to explore.
Early Checks
Your baby’s first vision check happens as part of their newborn physical examination, typically within 72 hours of birth. A midwife, doctor, nurse or health visitor will examine the appearance and movement of your baby’s eyes. This will include the Red Reflex Test which uses a light to check for a “red reflex” in each eye. A normal red reflex suggests the retina is healthy and clear. If one eye looks different or the reflex is missing or white, it can be a sign of conditions like cataracts or other concerns - and your baby should be referred to a hospital eye clinic quickly.
Further checks continue during your health visitor appointments as your baby grows, but they don’t assess exactly how well your baby can see. As a parent or carer, it's helpful to be aware of any signs that may suggest a problem.
What Should You Look Out For?
While most babies develop good vision without issues, there are some signs that may need further attention:
Eyes that don’t seem to focus or follow objects
Watery or sticky eyes beyond the newborn phase
One eye that turns in or out more than the other
Frequent blinking, squinting, or trouble with bright lights
Eyes that don't seem to align (e.g. one eye drifting)
Trouble recognising faces or responding visually to toys
If you notice any of these, speak to your health visitor or GP for advice. They may recommend a referral to an optometrist for a more detailed assessment.
Common eye conditions in Babies
👁️ Eye Turns (Strabismus): Around 70% of babies are born with one or both eyes occasionally turning outward - this often corrects itself within a few months. But if a turn remains, it could indicate strabismus (a squint), which should be assessed by an optometrist.
💧 Watery Eyes: This may be due to immature tear ducts, a common issue that often resolves by 12 months. If you’re concerned, especially if there’s discharge or redness, have it checked.
😴 Ptosis (Droopy Eyelid): A low or drooping eyelid can sometimes block vision. Mild cases may simply be monitored, but in some cases, referral or treatment is needed to ensure healthy visual development.
👀 Conjunctivitis (Ophthalmia Neonatorum): Some babies develop red, sticky, swollen eyes from birth-related infections. Most cases are mild, but some can be serious. Any swelling or discharge should be assessed promptly.
When Should You Bring Your Baby to an Optometrist?
If you have any worries about your baby’s eyes - even if they seem small - your optometrist is happy to help. Your child doesn’t need to know letters or numbers ot have their vision checked - at Blink, we use fun, child-friendly tests involving pictures, lights and interactive tools. Our experienced team is brilliant at making the experience enjoyable, even for wriggly little ones.
While babies don’t need a routine eye test unless concerns arise, it’s important that all children have a comprehensive eye examination before they start school (aged 3 is ideal). Early detection means any vision problems can be treated promptly, improving the chances of long-term healthy vision.
A Lifetime of Healthy Vision Starts Early
Good vision plays a vital role in your child’s learning, development, and confidence. By being proactive about your child’s eye health from the start, you’re setting them up for success, both in and out of the classroom.
If you have any concerns about your baby’s or child’s vision, or if it’s time for their first full eye test, we’re here to help.
Book an appointment with us today.
Blink, Bridge of Allan
📞 01786 832061
