How Normal Vision Develops

Skip to the navigation

Topic Overview

Normal vision develops rapidly during the first 2 years of life and continues more slowly until about age 9. During that time, a child's eyes and brain learn how to work together to see. Practice is the most important part of this learning process. Constant use of both eyes gives a child's eyes and brain the practice they need to develop normal eyesight.

If there is a problem with vision in one eye, it disrupts this learning process, and the brain stops developing normal vision for that eye. This can lead to amblyopia.

Related Information

Credits

ByHealthwise Staff

Primary Medical ReviewerJohn Pope, MD - Pediatrics

Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine

Specialist Medical ReviewerChristopher J. Rudnisky, MD, MPH, FRCSC - Ophthalmology

Current as ofMarch 3, 2017