Newborns can see right at birth, but their eyesight is poor and blurry. They can open their eyes and perceive light, shapes, and movement, but cannot focus well beyond about 8 to 12 inches away—the approximate distance to a parent's face during feeding. Their eyes are sensitive to bright light and may respond better in dimmer conditions. In the first few weeks, babies mostly see high- contrast patterns and are drawn to faces, particularly the eyes. Their eye muscles and focusing ability improve rapidly over the first 2 to 3 months. By about 1 month old, a baby can start to see more of the face and basic color distinctions, especially red. By 3 to 4 months, babies develop better focus, can track moving objects, and begin to see a range of colors like adults. Full color vision develops around 4 to 5 months. Depth perception and coordinated eye movement continue to improve through the first year. In summary:

• Newborns see but blurry, best focus around 8-12 inches
• At 1 month, better focus on faces and contrast, starting color perception
• By 3-4 months, can track objects and distinguish many colors
• Vision continues to mature up to toddler years

This means your newborn can see you from the moment they are born but gains much clearer, more coordinated vision over the first few months.