How to Prevent Flat Head Syndrome in Infants

Flat head syndrome, also called positional plagiocephaly, happens when a baby develops a flat spot on the back or side of their head. It usually occurs because babies spend a lot of time lying on their backs. While it does not affect a baby’s brain development, it can change the shape of the head. The good news is that flat head syndrome is often preventable and treatable. This article explains simple ways to help prevent it.

Why Does Flat Head Syndrome Happen?

A baby’s skull is soft and flexible at birth. This helps during delivery and gives the brain space to grow. But it also means that if a baby keeps lying in the same position for long periods, the head can become flat in one area.

The most common cause is spending too much time lying on the back, especially on a firm surface like a crib mattress, car seat, stroller, or swing. Some babies may also have a natural preference for turning their head to one side, which can add pressure to that spot.

Tips to Prevent Flat Head Syndrome

1. Tummy Time

Giving your baby “tummy time” while they’re awake and supervised is one of the best ways to prevent flat head syndrome. Place your baby on their stomach for a few minutes, several times a day. Start as early as the first week after birth.

Why it helps: Tummy time takes pressure off the back of the head and strengthens neck and shoulder muscles. It also helps babies learn how to lift their heads and eventually roll over, crawl, and sit.

Tips:

• Begin with 3–5 minutes at a time and slowly increase as your baby gets used to it.

• Make it fun with toys or by lying down face-to-face with your baby.

• Always stay nearby to supervise tummy time.

Read More: 10 Tips for Preventing Cranial Disorders in Infants

2. Change Head Positions During Sleep

Babies should always sleep on their backs to reduce the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). However, you can gently help your baby turn their head to a different side each time they sleep.

Tips:

• Alternate your baby’s head position – one night facing right, the next facing left.

• Place your baby’s head at opposite ends of the crib every few nights.

• Encourage your baby to look in both directions by moving mobiles or toys.

3. Hold Your Baby More Often

Car seats, swings, and strollers are helpful tools, but they should not be used all the time. Try to limit the time your baby spends lying on their back in these devices.

Why it helps: Holding your baby gives the back of their head a break and encourages natural movement.

Tips:

• Use a baby carrier or sling to carry your baby upright.

• Cuddle, rock, and feed your baby in your arms.

• Take breaks during the day to hold your baby instead of placing them in a bouncer or swing.

4. Change Baby’s Position While Feeding

Whether you bottle-feed or breastfeed, switch arms or sides during feeding sessions.

Why it helps: Changing positions helps prevent pressure on the same spot of the head and strengthens neck muscles on both sides.

5. Watch for Head Preference

If you notice that your baby always turns their head to one side, mention it to your pediatrician. Your baby may have tight neck muscles, a condition called torticollis, which makes it hard for them to move their head freely. Early treatment like stretching exercises or physical therapy can help.

When to Talk to a Doctor

Sometimes, even with the best care, a flat spot may still develop. Talk to your doctor if:

• The flat spot is getting worse.

• Your baby has trouble turning their head.

• The shape of your baby’s head looks uneven.

• You have any concerns about their development.

In some cases, your doctor may recommend seeing a specialist or using a soft helmet to gently reshape the baby’s head. These treatments are usually most effective between 4 and 12 months of age.

Final Thoughts

Flat head syndrome is common in infants and usually not serious. With a few simple steps—like tummy time, repositioning your baby’s head, holding them more often, and being mindful of their sleep position—you can help maintain a naturally rounded head shape.

Early intervention is key. Always follow safe sleep practices and consult your doctor with any concerns. The specialists at NJ Craniofacial Center offer expert evaluation and care for babies with flat head syndrome, helping ensure healthy head development and peace of mind for parents.