4 Myths About Baby’s Vision That Parents Still Believe

Vision is one of the most important senses for a baby’s development, yet many myths still confuse parents when it comes to their child’s eye health. Below, we debunk four common misconceptions — because taking care of vision from the very first days of life is essential to prevent future problems.

1. “All babies are born with normal vision”

Myth! Not every baby is born with healthy eyesight. Studies show that more than 1 in 10 newborns present some type of eye condition that can affect visual development. Some of these issues, such as congenital cataracts or retinoblastoma, may not be visible to the naked eye and require specific exams for early diagnosis.

2. “If there’s a problem, parents will notice it”

Myth! Many eye diseases in babies show no obvious signs in the first months of life. Serious conditions can progress silently, without causing pain or discomfort, and by the time parents notice something unusual, it may already be too late for effective treatment. That’s why early medical follow-up is so important.

3. “The traditional eye test is enough”

Myth! The traditional red reflex test, performed with a flashlight to observe the eye’s reflection, is important but has limitations. It may miss more subtle alterations that can only be detected with more advanced exams. Advanced Newborn Eye Screening is a modern and more comprehensive version, capable of identifying a wide range of eye diseases at an early stage — conditions that could otherwise compromise a child’s vision if not treated in time.

4. “Vision problems only appear once the child starts school”

Myth! Vision begins developing within the first months of life and continues to mature until around age seven or eight. If any barrier occurs during this period — such as strabismus, obstruction, or congenital diseases — the brain may fail to learn how to see properly, even if the condition is corrected later. That’s why prevention should start right after birth.

The importance of eye exams from the very beginning

Ensuring your baby has healthy vision is a responsibility that should begin right at the maternity ward. Exams such as Advanced Newborn Eye Screening provide greater accuracy and peace of mind, helping doctors and parents detect problems at an early stage and ensuring better chances of treatment and quality of life.

At Pr3vent, we believe prevention is the key to protecting the vision of future generations. Talk to your child’s pediatrician and learn more about the importance of performing this exam in the very first days of life.