Baby Not Tracking Objects with Eyes

Baby Crossed Eyes (Strabismus)

It is common for newborns' eyes to occasionally cross or wander during the first 3-4 months as their eye muscles strengthen and coordination develops. This intermittent crossing usually resolves on its own. However, if one eye consistently turns in, out, up, or down after 4 months, or if crossing is constant at any age, it should be evaluated by a pediatric ophthalmologist.

I'm Worried About Lazy Eye (Amblyopia)

Amblyopia (lazy eye) is the most common cause of vision loss in children, affecting about 2-3% of kids. It occurs when one eye develops weaker vision because the brain favors the other eye. The tricky part is that amblyopia often has no obvious outward signs - the eye usually looks normal. Early detection through routine vision screening is critical because treatment is most effective in the first few years of life.

My Baby's Eyes Shake or Wobble

Nystagmus is a condition where the eyes make rapid, involuntary movements - often side to side, up and down, or in a circular pattern. While it can be normal briefly when your baby is looking to the far side, persistent or constant nystagmus needs evaluation by a pediatric ophthalmologist. It can indicate vision problems, neurological issues, or be a benign inherited condition.

My Baby's Eyes Sometimes Cross (Intermittent Strabismus)

Occasional, brief eye crossing in babies under 3-4 months is very common and almost always normal as their eye muscles and coordination develop. By 4 months, the eyes should be consistently aligned. If crossing persists intermittently beyond 4 months, or if one eye consistently drifts outward (intermittent exotropia), a pediatric ophthalmology evaluation is recommended to prevent vision problems.

Should I Use Adjusted Age for My Preemie's Milestones?

Yes — for premature babies, developmental milestones should be assessed using adjusted (corrected) age, not chronological age, until at least 2 years of age. Adjusted age is calculated by subtracting the number of weeks your baby was born early from their actual age. For example, a 6-month-old born 2 months early would have an adjusted age of 4 months, and should be assessed against 4-month milestones. Most pediatricians use adjusted age for developmental assessment through age 2-3, and for growth charts through age 2.

Baby-Proofing a Small Apartment

Baby-proofing a small apartment is absolutely possible and focuses on the same key safety principles as any home: securing furniture to walls, covering outlets, locking cabinets with hazardous materials, and ensuring safe sleep spaces. Small spaces actually have an advantage - there is less area to monitor. Focus on eliminating the most dangerous hazards first: falls, poisoning, choking, and burns.