Why doesn't my baby look at me? Eye contact, month by month

Most babies look at a parent's face within the first two months, and smile back when you smile at them. Many babies look away often, especially when they're tired, hungry or overwhelmed, and that on its own is normal. What's worth a conversation with your pediatrician is a baby who rarely looks at you at all, or who stops doing something they used to do.

When do babies start making eye contact?

Most babies look at your face by about 2 months. By about 4 months, many look at you, move or make sounds to get or keep your attention.

Is it normal for my baby to look away from me?

Yes, often. Babies look away to rest when there's a lot going on. A baby who looks away sometimes is not the same as a baby who almost never looks at faces.

Does avoiding eye contact mean my baby is autistic?

No, not on its own. Eye contact is one of many things your pediatrician watches as your baby grows. Only a qualified professional can evaluate a child; a single sign, or a list, can't tell you.

When to talk to your pediatrician

Bring it up at any visit, or call between visits, if:

• your baby rarely looks at your face by about 2 to 3 months;
• your baby doesn't smile back at you;
• your baby used to look at you, smile or babble, and has stopped.

You don't need to wait for a checkup. Pediatricians watch development at every well-child visit, and many children are also screened for autism at 18 and 24 months. Telling your pediatrician what you've noticed at home is exactly what helps.

If you'd like a free way to track what you see, CDC's “Learn the Signs. Act Early.” milestone checklists are made for parents. Outside the US, your country's child-health service has its own.

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