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infant eye development
Three generations of women, including an infant, looking at a digital tablet
Three generations of women, including an infant, looking at a digital tablet

Infant Eye Development

Babies' eyes change quickly as they grow. Learn about the important vision changes that happen during the first year of life.

Babies' eyes change quickly as they grow. Learn about the important vision changes that happen during the first year of life.

BIRTH
  • Eyes are very sensitive to bright light
  • A change in eye color may occur over the coming months and years
  • Peripheral (side) vision is clear, but central vision is still developing
  • May start to see patterns and focus on objects directly in front of them
1 MONTH     
  • May start to focus on you, but still prefers to focus on more brightly colored objects
2 MONTHS
  • May follow a moving object with their eyes
3 MONTHS
  • Eyes begin to work together to focus on and track objects
5 MONTHS
  • Depth perception has developed more fully
  • 3-dimensional and color vision is improving
6 MONTHS
  • May recognize a parent or caregiver from across the room
8 MONTHS
  • Begin to see objects outside when looking through windows
  • Hand-eye coordination develops further, especially for babies starting to crawl
9 MONTHS
  • Eyes are likely in their final color
10 MONTHS
  • Can usually see and judge distance well enough to grasp objects
12 MONTHS
  • Able to judge distance well enough to throw items with precision

Did You Know?

During the first two months, an infant’s eyes may appear to be crossed or to wander. This is usually normal and will correct itself as your baby’s vision continues to develop.

During the first two months, an infant’s eyes may appear to be crossed or to wander. This is usually normal and will correct itself as your baby’s vision continues to develop.

Early Watchouts for Parents and Caregivers

Paying careful attention can help ensure that your baby’s eyes are developing properly. Make sure that your pediatrician checks baby’s eyes at each visit to catch any vision problems early. In addition:

  • Watch for significant delays in tracking moving objects
  • Ask your pediatrician for age-appropriate activities you can do with your baby to help develop their vision
  • Tell your pediatrician if your baby’s eyes constantly turn inward or outward, so your baby can be checked for strabismus (crossed eyes)

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