Vision Issues in Infants: Common Concerns and Developmental Milestones

Follow-up on newborn vision issues?

Hello, Doctor.
I am the mother who just asked about my three-month-old baby watching television (https://adoctor.tw/article/171016).
I just realized that the distance from our sofa to the TV is indeed less than two meters...
However, based on your assessment, my baby's brain development should not be able to understand the content on the TV, so I don't need to worry, right? I would also like to ask two more questions: 1) At what age do toddlers typically start to develop myopia? 2) At what age does a toddler's cognitive development become more mature? Thank you, Doctor.

Xinshou Ma, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/07/20

Dr. Xiao Kaiwen reply Pediatrics

The pathological mechanism of myopia occurs due to prolonged near work without rest, which can be caused by the use of digital devices at a distance that is accessible for children of this age.
Infants and toddlers have specific cognitive developmental milestones that should be achieved at each age, so it is unclear what level of maturity you are referring to.

Reply Date: 2021/07/20

More Info

Understanding vision issues in infants is crucial for parents, especially when it comes to the developmental milestones that accompany early childhood. As you mentioned, your three-month-old baby is not yet capable of comprehending the content on television, which is indeed accurate. At this age, infants primarily perceive high-contrast images and are limited in their visual acuity, typically seeing best at a distance of about 20 to 30 centimeters. This means that while they may be curious about the screen, they are unlikely to understand or engage with the content being displayed.

Vision Development in Infants
1. Vision Milestones: Infants are born with very limited vision, which gradually improves over the first year of life. By three months, they can track moving objects and may begin to show preferences for certain colors and patterns. However, their ability to focus on distant objects is still developing. The American Academy of Pediatrics suggests that screen time should be limited for children under 18 months, except for video chatting, as it does not provide the same developmental benefits as in-person interactions.

2. Risk of Myopia: Regarding your question about when children might start to develop myopia (nearsightedness), it typically occurs after the age of 5. However, the risk factors for myopia can begin much earlier, particularly with increased screen time and close-up activities. Studies have shown that prolonged near work, such as reading or using electronic devices, can contribute to the development of myopia. Therefore, it is essential to encourage outdoor play and limit screen time, especially for young children.

3. Cognitive Development: Cognitive development in infants is also a gradual process. By the age of 2, children begin to exhibit more advanced cognitive skills, such as problem-solving and understanding simple concepts. However, the term "mature" can vary widely depending on the specific cognitive skills being assessed. Generally, by age 5, many children are expected to have developed a more sophisticated understanding of their environment, including basic reasoning and social skills.

Recommendations for Parents
- Limit Screen Time: For infants and toddlers, it is advisable to limit screen time and encourage activities that promote visual and cognitive development, such as playing with toys, reading books, and engaging in physical play. This helps in developing their visual skills and cognitive abilities.

- Encourage Outdoor Play: Outdoor activities not only provide physical benefits but also help in reducing the risk of developing myopia. Natural light exposure is beneficial for eye health and overall well-being.

- Monitor Vision Development: Keep an eye on your child's vision development. If you notice any signs of visual impairment, such as squinting, difficulty focusing, or not tracking objects, consult a pediatrician or an eye specialist for a comprehensive evaluation.

- Regular Check-ups: Schedule regular pediatric check-ups to monitor your child's overall development, including vision and cognitive milestones. Early detection of any issues can lead to timely interventions.

In conclusion, while your three-month-old may not yet understand television content, it is essential to foster an environment that supports healthy vision and cognitive development. By being mindful of screen time and encouraging interactive play, you can help set the foundation for your child's growth and development. If you have further concerns about your child's vision or cognitive milestones, do not hesitate to reach out to a healthcare professional for guidance.

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