My baby is almost three months old and occasionally his eyes are crossed or are not aligned with each other. A quick internet search tells me that this is not abnormal, yet if this continues after four months of age I should check into it.
A friend of mine works as a private educator with children who struggle with learning and behavior. She told me that a vision exam by someone knowledgeable about visual development is a good idea for all children - not just those with crossed eyes. A lot of development depends on good vision – and the InfantSEE program makes such an exam free. [My friend recently wrote a blog post about vision and learning.]
Many times developmental optometrists are able to identify problems that pediatricians are not trained to observe. Dr. Franks in Bryant (phone: 501.847.9797) is one of the optometrists in central Arkansas who participates in the InfantSEE program. He is good with kids and does regular eye exams for babies. Because he is a developmental optometrist, he is trained to know exactly what visual skills are appropriate at what age.
As with most things, early intervention can make a big difference. If you have a baby -or know someone with a baby- please tell them about the InfantSEE program.
-Julie
