How Well Can Newborn Babies See?
Visual Acuity- Newborns' vision is blurry, with an acuity of only 20/400 to 20/800. This means that they can only see objects clearly at a distance of 20 to 800 feet, respectively, as opposed to the standard 20/20 vision.
Peripheral Vision
- Newborns have a wide field of peripheral vision, allowing them to see objects as far as 180 degrees to their left and right sides.
Color Perception
- Newborns can distinguish between light and dark and between some colors, such as red and yellow. However, their color perception is not fully developed.
Tracking Ability
- Newborns can track moving objects with their eyes, but their movements are often jerky.
Eye Movements
- Newborns' eye movements are uncoordinated and jerky, improving gradually over the first few months of life.
Visual Preferences
- Newborns show a preference for looking at human faces and high-contrast patterns.
Vision Screening
- Visual problems can be detected early through newborn vision screening tests, which are recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics.
Here is a table summarizing the development of vision in newborns:
Age | Visual Acuity (Snellen) | Peripheral Vision (Degrees) | Color Perception | Tracking Ability |
Birth | 20/400 to 20/800 | 180° | Light/dark, red/yellow | Jerky |
2 months |20/200 | 180° | All major colors | Improved tracking |
6 months |20/100 | 200°–210° | Full color perception | Smooth, coordinated |
12 months | 20/25–20/20 | 220°–230° | Fully mature | Fully developed |
(Adapted from "Neonatal Vision Screening" by the American Academy of Pediatrics)
Remember that every baby is different, and their visual development may vary slightly from these general milestones. If you have any concerns about your baby's vision, it is important to consult a healthcare professional.