As parents, we closely monitor our children’s growth, from their first words to their first steps. But what about their vision? Since babies and toddlers can’t express if they’re having trouble seeing, it’s up to parents to recognize the signs of potential vision problems. Early detection is key in preventing long-term issues, and a kid’s eye exam can help catch concerns before they interfere with development. So, how can you tell if your little one might have trouble seeing? Here’s what to watch for in the early years.
Delayed Visual Development
Babies are born with limited vision, but their eyesight develops rapidly in the first few months. By two to three months old, they should begin tracking objects with their eyes and making eye contact. If a baby doesn’t seem to follow moving objects or fails to recognize familiar faces by this stage, it could be a sign of a vision delay.
Additionally, babies should be able to focus on objects at different distances by around six months. If they continue to struggle with this or seem uninterested in visually engaging with their surroundings, it’s worth discussing with a paediatrician or eye specialist.
Frequent Eye Rubbing or Squinting
Occasionally rubbing the eyes is normal, especially when a child is tired. However, excessive rubbing could suggest eye strain, discomfort, or an underlying condition like uncorrected farsightedness. Likewise, squinting can indicate a child attempting to compensate for blurry vision. If you notice either habit occurring frequently, it may be time to schedule an eye exam for your child to rule out any concerns or issues.
Misalignment or Crossed Eyes
While it’s common for a newborn’s eyes to occasionally drift or cross during the first few months, persistent misalignment after six months may indicate strabismus. This occurs when the eyes don’t work together correctly, which can lead to vision problems if left untreated. Early intervention, whether through vision therapy, glasses, or other treatments, can help correct alignment issues and prevent long-term complications.
Lack of Interest in Visual Stimuli
Toddlers are naturally curious, often reaching for colorful objects, pointing at things, or reacting to bright lights and movement. If a child seems indifferent to visual stimuli or doesn’t react to new sights, it could indicate a vision problem. This lack of engagement may suggest difficulty seeing clearly or distinguishing shapes and details, impacting their learning and cognitive development.
Holding Objects Too Close
If a toddler frequently brings books, toys, or screens unusually close to their face, it may be a sign of nearsightedness (myopia). While occasional close-up viewing is normal, consistently needing to move objects closer to see details suggests an issue with distance vision. This habit and frequent squinting can indicate the need for an eye evaluation.
Unsteady Eye Movements or Light Sensitivity
Jerky or wandering eye movements that don’t improve over time can indicate vision issues. Similarly, extreme sensitivity to light (photophobia) may point to an underlying condition such as astigmatism or cataracts. If a child appears unusually bothered by normal lighting conditions, it’s essential to seek an eye specialist’s opinion to determine the cause.
Spotting vision problems in babies and toddlers can be challenging, but paying attention to subtle signs can make all the difference. Delayed tracking, frequent eye rubbing, squinting, or a lack of interest in visual activities may all indicate potential issues that require attention. Regular vision checkups help ensure that any concerns are addressed early, supporting healthy development.
Clinics like Pearle Vision offer specialized pediatric eye exams to detect vision issues in young children. By staying proactive about eye health, parents can help their little ones see the world clearly and thrive in every growth stage.