Early Signs of Vision Problems in Children: What Parents Should Look For

Vision is one of the most important senses for a child’s physical, cognitive, and social development. From birth, the eyes play a key role in how the baby interacts with the world. That’s why it’s essential for parents to be attentive to the first signs of potential visual problems—especially in the first months of life, when many conditions can be diagnosed and treated more effectively.

Early months: paying close attention

In the very first days, it’s possible to notice behaviors that indicate whether the baby’s vision is developing properly. Warning signs include:

• Lack of eye contact: by 1 to 2 months, the baby should begin to fix their gaze on faces and nearby objects.

• Misaligned eyes: constant strabismus or irregular eye movements may indicate conditions that need to be evaluated.

• Excessive sensitivity to light: could be a sign of eye problems such as congenital glaucoma.

• No visual response to stimuli: when the baby does not follow moving objects or react to changes in light.

  
  

Warning signs in older children

As the child grows, some vision problems may appear more subtly, but are still noticeable:

• Holding books, tablets, or the TV too close to the eyes.

• Frequent complaints of headaches.

• Frequent falls or tripping.

• Squinting to see far away.

• Avoiding activities that require near or distant vision.

  
  

The importance of early detection

Many childhood eye diseases—such as congenital cataracts, retinoblastoma, or significant refractive errors—can be silent in the early stages. However, when detected early, the chances of successful treatment and prevention of visual sequelae increase significantly. That’s why eye examinations should start right at the maternity.

Advanced Newborn Eye Screening: an essential care step

Advanced Newborn Eye Screening is a cutting-edge exam capable of detecting eye conditions that are not visible to the naked eye. Unlike traditional screening, it provides a detailed evaluation of the retina, optic nerve, and other internal eye structures. Performing this test from birth is a safe and effective way to ensure that any problem is identified and treated as early as possible—giving the child the opportunity to fully develop their visual potential.

Being alert to signs and scheduling exams from the very first days of life is not just a recommendation—it’s a concrete way to protect your child’s vision and quality of life. Pr3vent is committed to bringing this care to all newborns, so that every child can see the world clearly and grow up healthy.