Supporting Visual Development: The Importance of Developing Baby’s Visual Abilities

Visual development is a crucial part of baby’s growth. According to Pregnancy & Baby’s 2012 article on visual stimulation, newborn babies are only able to see a mere 8-15 inches in front of them. In addition, “they are unable to see color or highly detailed designs”. This can make it challenging for parents to find ways to help support and stimulate baby’s visual development. However, through research doctors and scientists alike have found that “high-contrasting colors are best for building vision development in newborn babies” Pregnancy & Baby Magazine; 2012. Knowing this valuable information about baby’s visual abilities is the key to choosing the best toys and products to help support their visual development. At Manhattan Toy, we have many award winning toys that support babies as they achieve their milestones in development. However, one toy collection in particular is known exclusively for its unique array of research driven designs that support baby’s growing visual abilities. Wimmer-Ferguson® is the original leader in research based, high contrast colors and images for infant visual development. Reflecting over 40 years of academic research, the graphics and patterns on all Wimmer-Ferguson products adapt to a baby’s changes in visual development by featuring a range of design, complexity and color. According to the American Optometric Association, “from birth, babies begin exploring the wonders in the world with their eyes. Even before they learn to reach and grab with their hands or crawl and sit-up, their eyes are providing information and stimulation important for their development.” Visually stimulating toys, like those found in the Wimmer-Ferguson toy collection, nurture baby’s ability to see the world around them. Just like learning to grasp crawl and walk, babies move through different stages of infant visual development. In addition to supporting visual growth, Wimmer-Ferguson offers a variety of toys that foster other important skills in baby’s first year of life including, eye-hand coordination, gross motor activity, self-awareness, sense of object permanence and experience with cause and effect.   This unique line of baby toys provide parents with peace of mind in knowing that they are helping their child reach developmental milestones through play! See the full collection of Wimmer-Ferguson toys by visiting our website at www. Manhattantoy.com