Which period is considered a key window of opportunity for vision development?

The period considered a key window of opportunity for vision development is the first six months of life. During this time, an infant's sensory systems, including vision, undergo rapid growth and maturation. Newborns initially have limited visual acuity and can see objects primarily at a close range, but significant changes occur within the first few months.

Around two to three months, infants begin to focus better on objects and show preferences for high-contrast patterns. Their ability to track moving objects improves significantly by four to six months, allowing them to explore their environment more effectively. By the end of the first six months, infants experience rapid advancements in depth perception, color vision, and visual coordination, which are crucial for later skills such as reading and spatial awareness.

While the first three months and the first year are also important for overall development and other sensory skills, the specific advancements in visual capabilities peak during the six-month mark, making it a crucial time for supporting visual development through responsive interactions and visual stimulation. The two-year mark continua to be important for overall development, but the foundational visual skills are primarily established during the first six months.