Babies learn to see over a period of time, much like they learn to walk and talk. An infant should receive his or her first eye exam between the ages of 6 and 12 months. Healthy eyes and good vision play a critical role in how infants and children learn to see. Eye and vision problems in infants can cause developmental delays.

Parents play an important role in helping to assure their child’s eyes and vision can develop properly.

  • Watch for signs of eye or vision problems.
  • Seek professional eye care starting with the first comprehensive vision exam at about 6 months of age.
  • Help your child develop their vision by engaging in age-appropriate activities.
  • Vision development and eye health problems are easier to correct if treatment begins early.