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Baby Developing a Flat Spot? 6 Activities to Prevent Flat Head Syndrome

Baby Developing a Flat Spot? 6 Activities to Prevent Flat Head Syndrome

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 heads. 

Luckily, it’s really easy to prevent and fix if caught early enough.


In photo: Standing Card Holder & Tummy Time Pillow from the Look With Me Play Box

Here are our 6 favorite activities to prevent flat spots on your baby’s head:

Tummy time

Not only does tummy time get the pressure and weight off of your baby’s head, but it also has so many benefits for strengthening their neck and arm muscles.

In photo: Tummy Time Pillow from the Look With Me Play Box

Minimize time in baby gear

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.

Lying on his side

Roll up a towel or place a soft pillow behind your baby as he lies on his side. Most babies love this position, so make it even more fun by adding a mirror or high-contrast cards for them to look at. Never leave your baby unattended in this position.


In photo: Standing Card Holder & Tummy Time Pillow from the Look With Me Play Box

Hold your baby

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 also love seeing the new environments.

Use a carrier

As much as we love holding our babies, we still need to get stuff done. Using a baby carrier is ideal to get all the benefits from holding your baby while getting to eat something.


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.


In photo: High Contrast Mobile from the Look With Me Play Box


If you are concerned that your baby is developing a flat spot, talk to your paediatrician. Some babies might have tight neck muscles, keeping them from comfortably turning their heads. Some easy stretches with the guidance of a therapist might help!

Start the development journey with MonkiBox. Montessori-inspired toys designed to give your child the best start. 

Tags: 0-12 weeks Activity Development & Milestones Motor Skills & Movement Newborn Newborn Essentials Parenting Through Transitions Playtime
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