Medical Conditions

Intermittent Crossed Eyes in Newborns

Medically reviewed by Dr. Michael Okonkwo, MD, FAAP · Board-Certified Neonatologist

Content reviewed against published AAP, AAP guidelines

Editorial policy

Last reviewed:

If your baby has been diagnosed with or you suspect intermittent crossed eyes in newborns, here is what the evidence says.

The short answer

Intermittent crossing of the eyes in newborns is very common and usually normal in the first 3-4 months of life. Your baby's eye muscles are still developing coordination, and occasional misalignment is expected. Most babies develop consistent eye alignment by 4 months of age. If crossing persists beyond 4 months or is constant, an eye evaluation is recommended.

Key takeaways

  • Intermittent crossing of the eyes in newborns is very common and usually normal in the first 3-4 months of life. Your baby's eye muscles are still developing coordination, and occasional misalignment is expected. Most babies develop consistent eye alignment by 4 months of age. If crossing persists beyond 4 months or is constant, an eye evaluation is recommended.
  • Usually normal when: Intermittent eye crossing in the first 3-4 months of life that comes and goes
  • Call your doctor if: Constant, fixed eye crossing at any age, or a white reflection (white pupil) in photos instead of the normal red-eye, which could indicate a serious eye condition
  • Varies by age — see the age-by-age breakdown below
“Fever itself is not an illness — rather, it is a sign or symptom that the body is fighting an infection. Fever stimulates certain defenses, such as the white blood cells, which attack and destroy invading bacteria.”
— Fever and Your Child, American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP)

This is one of the most common questions parents ask. Searching for answers means you care.

What Parents Should Know

According to AAP guidelines, intermittent crossing of the eyes in newborns is very common and usually normal in the first 3-4 months of life. Your baby's eye muscles are still developing coordination, and occasional misalignment is expected. Most babies develop consistent eye alignment by 4 months of age. If crossing persists beyond 4 months or is constant, an eye evaluation is recommended. At 0-1 month, newborns have immature eye muscle coordination, and it is very common for their eyes to appear crossed or to wander in different directions, especially when tired or focusing on something close. This intermittent misalignment is a normal part of development. Babies at this age can see about 8-12 inches, roughly the distance to a parent's face during feeding. It is generally considered normal when intermittent eye crossing in the first 3-4 months of life that comes and goes. However, you should contact your pediatrician promptly if constant, fixed eye crossing at any age, or a white reflection (white pupil) in photos instead of the normal red-eye, which could indicate a serious eye condition.

Sources: [1], [2]

Normal vs. Concerning

Usually Normal
Worth Discussing
Intermittent eye crossing in the first 3-4 months of life that comes and goes
Constant, fixed eye crossing at any age, or a white reflection (white pupil) in photos instead of the normal red-eye, which could indicate a serious eye condition
Eyes that sometimes wander but can focus together, especially on faces
One eye appears significantly larger or smaller than the other, or you notice any cloudiness in the pupil
The crossing happens more when baby is tired or overstimulated
Eye crossing continues beyond 4 months of age, even if intermittent
Both eyes appear to respond to light equally
One eye seems to consistently drift in one direction

By Age

What to expect by age

0-1 month

Newborns have immature eye muscle coordination, and it is very common for their eyes to appear crossed or to wander in different directions, especially when tired or focusing on something close. This intermittent misalignment is a normal part of development. Babies at this age can see about 8-12 inches, roughly the distance to a parent's face during feeding.

1-3 months

Eye coordination continues to improve during this period. You should notice fewer episodes of crossing as the eye muscles strengthen. Babies begin to track moving objects and make more consistent eye contact. Some intermittent misalignment is still normal at this age.

3-6 months

By 4 months, most babies have developed consistent eye alignment. If you still notice frequent or constant eye crossing after 4 months of age, it is important to have your baby's eyes evaluated by a pediatric ophthalmologist. Early detection and treatment of true strabismus leads to better outcomes for vision development.

6-12 months

Eyes should be well-aligned at this age. Any persistent or new-onset eye crossing should prompt a referral to a pediatric ophthalmologist. Untreated strabismus can lead to amblyopia (lazy eye), where the brain favors one eye over the other, potentially affecting vision long-term.

What to Tell Your Pediatrician

  • Describe when you first noticed intermittent crossed eyes in newborns and how it has changed over time.
  • Note your baby's current age and which age-specific patterns you are seeing.
  • Mention if eye crossing continues beyond 4 months of age, even if intermittent.
  • Mention if one eye seems to consistently drift in one direction.
  • Let your doctor know if you have noticed any related concerns, such as changes in feeding, sleep, or movement patterns.
  • Bring a list of any questions or observations you want to discuss at the appointment.

What Should You Do?

When to take action

Probably normal when...
  • Intermittent eye crossing in the first 3-4 months of life that comes and goes
  • Eyes that sometimes wander but can focus together, especially on faces
  • The crossing happens more when baby is tired or overstimulated
  • Both eyes appear to respond to light equally
Mention at your next visit when...
  • Eye crossing continues beyond 4 months of age, even if intermittent
  • One eye seems to consistently drift in one direction
  • You notice your baby tilting their head to one side consistently when looking at things
Act now when...
  • Constant, fixed eye crossing at any age, or a white reflection (white pupil) in photos instead of the normal red-eye, which could indicate a serious eye condition
  • One eye appears significantly larger or smaller than the other, or you notice any cloudiness in the pupil

What You Can Do at Home

  • Keep track of when you notice intermittent crossed eyes in newborns — noting the time of day, duration, and any triggers can help your pediatrician.
  • Remember that intermittent eye crossing in the first 3-4 months of life that comes and goes — this is generally within the range of normal.
  • At 0-1 month, focus on observation rather than intervention unless your pediatrician advises otherwise.
  • Follow any care instructions from your pediatrician. Keep a written log of symptoms to bring to appointments.
  • While monitoring at home, seek immediate care if constant, fixed eye crossing at any age, or a white reflection (white pupil) in photos instead of the normal red-eye, which could indicate a serious eye 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.

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.

Excessive Tearing in Newborns (Watery Eyes)

Watery or teary eyes in newborns are most commonly caused by a blocked tear duct (nasolacrimal duct obstruction), which affects up to 20% of babies. The condition is usually harmless and resolves on its own in the first year. Gentle massage of the tear duct area can help, and true tears typically do not appear until 1-3 months of age.

Milestone

Month-by-Month Development

Detailed monthly development guides from birth through 24 months.

Guide

When to Call the Doctor

General guide on when to call the pediatrician, visit urgent care, or go to the ER.

Frequently asked questions

Is intermittent crossed eyes in newborns normal?
Intermittent crossing of the eyes in newborns is very common and usually normal in the first 3-4 months of life. Your baby's eye muscles are still developing coordination, and occasional misalignment is expected. Most babies develop consistent eye alignment by 4 months of age. If crossing persists beyond 4 months or is constant, an eye evaluation is recommended.
When should I call the doctor about intermittent crossed eyes in newborns?
Constant, fixed eye crossing at any age, or a white reflection (white pupil) in photos instead of the normal red-eye, which could indicate a serious eye condition One eye appears significantly larger or smaller than the other, or you notice any cloudiness in the pupil
When is intermittent crossed eyes in newborns normal?
Intermittent eye crossing in the first 3-4 months of life that comes and goes Eyes that sometimes wander but can focus together, especially on faces The crossing happens more when baby is tired or overstimulated
What causes intermittent crossed eyes in newborns?
Intermittent crossing of the eyes in newborns is very common and usually normal in the first 3-4 months of life. Your baby's eye muscles are still developing coordination, and occasional misalignment is expected. Most babies develop consistent eye alignment by 4 months of age. If crossing persists beyond 4 months or is constant, an eye evaluation is recommended. Common explanations include: Intermittent eye crossing in the first 3-4 months of life that comes and goes. Eyes that sometimes wander but can focus together, especially on faces.
What should I mention to my pediatrician about intermittent crossed eyes in newborns?
You should mention intermittent crossed eyes in newborns at your next visit if: Eye crossing continues beyond 4 months of age, even if intermittent. One eye seems to consistently drift in one direction. You notice your baby tilting their head to one side consistently when looking at things.
Is intermittent crossed eyes in newborns normal at 0-1 month?
Newborns have immature eye muscle coordination, and it is very common for their eyes to appear crossed or to wander in different directions, especially when tired or focusing on something close. This intermittent misalignment is a normal part of development. Babies at this age can see about 8-12 inches, roughly the distance to a parent's face during feeding.
Is intermittent crossed eyes in newborns normal at 1-3 months?
Eye coordination continues to improve during this period. You should notice fewer episodes of crossing as the eye muscles strengthen. Babies begin to track moving objects and make more consistent eye contact. Some intermittent misalignment is still normal at this age.
Should I go to the ER for intermittent crossed eyes in newborns?
Seek emergency care if constant, fixed eye crossing at any age, or a white reflection (white pupil) in photos instead of the normal red-eye, which could indicate a serious eye condition, or if one eye appears significantly larger or smaller than the other, or you notice any cloudiness in the pupil. When in doubt, call your pediatrician's after-hours line for guidance.
Does intermittent crossed eyes in newborns go away on its own?
In many cases, intermittent crossed eyes in newborns resolves on its own, especially when intermittent eye crossing in the first 3-4 months of life that comes and goes. By 6-12 months, eyes should be well-aligned at this age. Any persistent or new-onset eye crossing should prompt a referral to a pediatric ophthalmologist. Untreated strabismus can lead to amblyopia (lazy eye), where the brain favors one eye over the other, potentially affecting vision long-term.
AAPAAP

References

  1. [1]American Academy of Pediatrics. Eye Exams for Children. HealthyChildren.org. AAP
  2. [2]American Academy of Pediatrics. Vision Screening Recommendations. Pediatrics. AAP

Doctor Visit Checklist

Bring this checklist to your next pediatrician visit to discuss Intermittent Crossed Eyes in Newborns.

Things to mention

  • Describe when you first noticed intermittent crossed eyes in newborns and how it has changed over time.
  • Note your baby's current age and which age-specific patterns you are seeing.
  • Mention if eye crossing continues beyond 4 months of age, even if intermittent.
  • Mention if one eye seems to consistently drift in one direction.
  • Let your doctor know if you have noticed any related concerns, such as changes in feeding, sleep, or movement patterns.
  • Bring a list of any questions or observations you want to discuss at the appointment.

Observations to share

  • Eye crossing continues beyond 4 months of age, even if intermittent
  • One eye seems to consistently drift in one direction
  • You notice your baby tilting their head to one side consistently when looking at things

Urgent signs to report immediately

  • Constant, fixed eye crossing at any age, or a white reflection (white pupil) in photos instead of the normal red-eye, which could indicate a serious eye condition
  • One eye appears significantly larger or smaller than the other, or you notice any cloudiness in the pupil

My notes

From ismybabyalright.com — free, evidence-based baby health guides

All content follows our editorial policy and is reviewed against published clinical guidelines.

2,705 evidence-based guides6 authoritative medical sources5 medical advisory board members

Related Resources

Eye Discharge TriageWell-Baby Visit PrepBaby Tracker

Bottom line

Most cases of intermittent crossed eyes in newborns are normal. Talk to your pediatrician if constant, fixed eye crossing at any age, or a white reflection (white pupil) in photos instead of the normal red-eye, which could indicate a serious eye condition.

Trust your instincts. If something feels wrong, reach out to your pediatrician. Worrying about your baby means you care — that is a good thing.

Share:FacebookX

Was this page helpful?

Related Medical Concerns

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.

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.

Excessive Tearing in Newborns (Watery Eyes)

Watery or teary eyes in newborns are most commonly caused by a blocked tear duct (nasolacrimal duct obstruction), which affects up to 20% of babies. The condition is usually harmless and resolves on its own in the first year. Gentle massage of the tear duct area can help, and true tears typically do not appear until 1-3 months of age.

My Baby's Head Shape Looks Abnormal

Many babies develop temporary head shape irregularities that are completely normal. A cone-shaped head from vaginal delivery reshapes within days. Mild positional flattening (plagiocephaly) from sleeping on the back is very common and usually improves with repositioning and tummy time. However, head shape changes involving ridges, a persistently bulging fontanelle, or rapid head growth changes should be evaluated to rule out craniosynostosis.

Achondroplasia (Dwarfism) in Babies

Achondroplasia is the most common form of short-limbed dwarfism, affecting about 1 in 15,000 to 40,000 births. It is caused by a mutation in the FGFR3 gene and is usually apparent at birth with characteristic features including short limbs, a larger head, and a prominent forehead. Intelligence is normal. With monitoring for specific complications and supportive care, children with achondroplasia lead full, active, and independent lives.

Adenoid Hypertrophy and Breathing

Adenoids are lymphoid tissue located behind the nose that help fight infection in young children. When adenoids become enlarged (adenoid hypertrophy), they can block the nasal airway, causing chronic mouth breathing, snoring, nasal speech, and sleep-disordered breathing. Enlarged adenoids are most common between ages 2-7 and are a leading cause of obstructive sleep apnea in young children. Treatment ranges from watchful waiting and nasal steroids to surgical removal (adenoidectomy) if breathing or sleep is significantly affected.