Babies and the benefits of High-Contrast Images for Development

Did you know that newborn babies cannot see anything other than black, white, and gray? The first color babies will be able to see is red, but that doesn’t happen until they are about 5 months old. Babies’ vision are also blurry. When they see high-contrast images, they are able to make out and interpret them.

As a new mom, I was unaware of high-contrast images and their effects on babies. I was gifted a couple of high-contrast books and didn’t really give them much thought. One day, playing with my daughter, I decided to grab one of her cardboard books. The one I happened to grab was a high-contrast book. I started showing her the pictures and reading the book to her and she was amused! It kept her attention and I could see her really focusing on the images. Since then, I’ve looked into the benefits it can have on her development and there are so many!

Visual Development

Using high-contrast images/books with your baby who is used to seeing blur, allows him/her to really focus. Our retinas send visual signals to the brain. When a baby is shown stark black and white images, it sends a stronger signal, increasing visual and brain development.

Benefits of High-Contrast Books

Reading to babies starting at birth can lead to better communication skills and a larger vocabulary according to research. Reading to your baby can help their listening skills while teaching them things like letters, numbers, shapes, and even social skills. Reading to your baby can also build the your bond with him/her. Using a high-contrast book not only aids in vision development and brain growth, but can also make the bond between parents and the baby stronger.

Tips for Using High-Contrast Images and Books

Make sure to hold the images/books 8-12 inches from the babies face. According to KidsHealth.org, that is how far they can see.
Kill two birds with one stone by using the books during tummy time. It will allow your baby to remain engaged and occupied while on their tummy.
According to HealthyChildren.org a baby’s eyes will be working together by 4 months. When using high-contrast images/books, try moving them around to see if your baby will track it within their field of vision.

Now, one of my favorite things to do with my baby girl is to read her high-contrast books during tummy time or while we’re snuggling first thing in the morning. She really loves her books, Hello, Baby Animals and Hello, My World from Duopress Labs. Take a look at more high-contrast books below!