Research has shown that visual motor function contributes to a child’s ability to tie his shoes, use scissors, throw a ball, and later in childhood supports handwriting and reading, among many other things. When your baby is born, his eyes are still very much developing. In order to strengthen the muscles that allow the eyes to move, we can provide means of tracking, that is encouraging his eyes to move around to locate items or shapes. This can be done by moving a rattle around, expecting him to begin reaching for it around 3-4 months. Of course, all babies are different, and many may not begin reaching for items or tracking toys right away. If you suspect your child may be delayed, early intervention is incredibly beneficial, and speaking with your physician could provide you with better insight.
When scientists have observed the way babies search for objects, they consistently note increased eye movement when the baby is provided high contrast objects. Black and white is most beneficial, but babies can also detect color, such as bright red. This is because the anatomical make up of the baby’s eye has not developed enough for him to recognize bright or dullness.
I have attached six high contrast images that can be printed and cut in half or placed on the wall as is. The best time to use them is following a feeding so he is happy and ready to interact with the world around him. Feel free to use these however you’d like. If you share them on social media, please tag @tiger_andlion and/or use the hashtag #tigerandlion
Tiger and Lion 