Did you know that about 1 in 5 babies will develop a flat spot on their head? This is called Positional Plagiocephaly or simply flat head syndrome.
A newborn's skull is very soft to allow it to pass through the birth canal, but when babies spend a lot of time in the same position, too much pressure might reshape their head.
Luckily, it's easy to prevent and fix if caught early enough.
Here are top activities to prevent flat spots on your baby's head:
Daily tummy time.
Not only does tummy time get the pressure and weight off of your baby's head, but it also has many benefits for strengthening their neck and arm muscles.
Avoid too much time in a car seat.
You are not a bad mom if you leave your baby in a bouncer seat for a few minutes while you take a shower, but spending too much time in car seats, bouncers, and swings might contribute to your baby developing a flat spot.
Allow your baby to lie on their side.
Roll up a towel or place a soft pillow behind your baby as your baby lays on their side. Most babies love this position, so make it extra fun by adding the High-Contrast Gallary for your baby to look at. Make sure you don't leave your baby alone and monitor them.
Alternative tummy time positions.
While your baby is awake and alert, take him on a tour of the house while holding him. Not only will he benefit from being in an upright position, but he will love seeing new environments.
Prop them on your knee.
A great way to interact with your baby is to have them face you as they lean back on your bent legs. This is a great position to read them a book, talk to them or sing a nursery rhyme with some movements.
If you notice your baby developing a flat head spot, its always advised to speak to your doctor.