Please see the following page for information about signs that may suggest your child has a problem with their vision and what you should do if you are concerned by clicking here.
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When does a child typically develop visual skills?

  • Newborn - follows a face in the centre of their view
  • 6-8 weeks - follows a moving object or face by turning their head, smiles at things or people they like.

How can I help?

  • Show your baby pictures of faces and colourful books and toys.
  • Point out new things to your baby.
  • Play peek-a-boo and hide and seek.

When should I be concerned about my baby's vision?

  • Not fixing and following moving objects or faces by the age of 3 months.
  • Not smiling responsively by 3 months of age.
  • Appears to have a squint or unequal movements with their eyes after the age of 3 months (babies younger than this can sometimes appear to squint (eyes turning in)).
  • Random or repetitive eye movements. Difficulties with development of fine motor skills may indicate a problem with vision, so please read this section also.
  • If at any age you notice a white reflection in the pupil (dark centre circle) of the eye.

Where can I get help?

Speak with your health visitor or GP early if you may have any concerns about your baby's vision or eyes. They can help refer your baby to have a formal eye test.

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