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Vision and Hearing

Some developmental signs are easy for you to notice. Others are not. Your baby’s vision and hearing are important. It may not be easy to recognize when there is a problem. If your baby’s hearing was not screened at time of birth, you can get information about getting a screening by calling us at 1-866-585-1123.

If you have concerns about your child’s hearing, or have a child with a hearing loss, there is help and support available for your child and family. Read more here

Signs of Healthy Development

Here are some signs that your baby’s vision and hearing are developing appropriately.

Vision: Does your child. . .

• Make eye contact (look at your eyes)
• Follow a moving object with her eyes
• Walk or crawl without frequently bumping into objects
• Look at people and things using both eyes
• Hold objects at normal distance (after age 6 months)
• Walk or crawl smoothly across shadows or areas that look different (carpet, tile)
• Look at people and things without eyes crossing or squinting (after 9 months)
• Have eyes that are clear, not red or watery

Hearing: Does your child. . .

• Show awareness of home noises (telephone, door knock, television)
• Use a voice that’s not too loud or too soft
• Play with toys that make a noise (rattles, bells)
• Imitate sounds (after 1 year)
• Use some word endings (“s” or “ing”) after age two
• Follow verbal directions
• Maintain a moderate volume on the television or radio
• Listen to stories, records or television without difficulty
• Speak so most people can understand (if older than 2-1/2 years)
• Come to you when called from another room (after 2 years)

If you have concerns about your child’s vision and/or hearing, talk with your child’s health care provider or call the Family Health Hotline at 1-800-322-2588.

Source: “Birth to Six Growth & Development”, Washington State Department of Social and Health Services, Infant Toddler Early Intervention Program