🩺 Health · 0 – 6 months
🛑 Reducing flat spots on baby's head
A baby's growing skull can develop a flat area when pressure falls repeatedly on the same spot. Keep back sleeping for safety and vary baby's positions while awake. Flat spots are not a reason for blame; early advice can help, especially if baby strongly prefers one side.
What you'll need
- A firm play mat on the floor.
- An age-appropriate toy for supervised awake play.
- A clear, firm, flat sleep space—no head-shaping pillow.
Make movement part of the day
1. Keep sleep safe
Always start sleep on the back, on a firm, flat mattress in baby's own clear crib or bassinet. Keep it in your room for at least 6 months. Do not use side sleeping, pillows or positioners to change head shape.
2. Start short tummy-time sessions
From the early days, try brief tummy time when baby is awake and you are actively watching. Build up gradually as tolerated. Chest-to-chest tummy time is an option only with a fully awake adult supporting baby and keeping the airway clear.
3. Encourage looking both ways
During awake play, place yourself or a toy on different sides so baby turns voluntarily. You can vary the crib's orientation relative to the room, but keep toys outside the sleep space and do not force the head to turn.
4. Vary carrying and feeding
Alternate the arm used for holding and bottle feeds when comfortable. Offer supported upright cuddles and floor play rather than spending long periods in seats or bouncers.
5. Get an early check
Ask your pediatric team or barangay health centre about a growing flat spot, persistent head tilt, difficulty turning one way or an unusual head shape. A clinician can assess neck tightness and arrange qualified physiotherapy or specialist review if needed.
Classic mistakes
- ❌ Buying a head-shaping pillow Pillows and positioners create suffocation hazards and do not belong in the crib. Seek clinical advice rather than buying a corrective device yourself.
- ❌ Using tummy time for sleep Tummy time is only for awake, supervised play. If baby becomes sleepy, move them onto their back in their safe sleep space.
- ❌ Using a car seat as an everyday resting place Use the car seat properly for travel. After the journey, move baby to an appropriate sleep or play surface rather than leaving them there unnecessarily.
A local detail, or your own experience with this guide? Write to the team
Same topic
- Paternity Leave Act
- Maternity leave allocation
- Birth registration
- Family Code
- Emergency services
- Newborn screening
- Infant feeding
When in doubt, contact your doctor or midwife. For a life-threatening emergency, call 911.