How to Prevent Flat Head

It is possible to prevent your infant from developing flat head

When a baby is lying on his back, he tends to turn his head to the same side. Because of this tendency, and the fact that babies' skulls are very soft, a baby's head can actually flatten on one side. The medical term for this is plagiocephaly. The following article will discuss ways to prevent your baby from developing 'flat head' or plagiocephaly.

Things You'll Need

• Crib
• Mobile
• Mat or blanket for tummy time

Instructions

How to Prevent Flat Head

1. Be sure to change the position of your baby's head while he's lying in his crib. This is the easiest way to prevent flat head.

2. Place your baby in his crib with his head at the foot of the crib and the next day place his head at the head of the crib. Babies tend to turn their head so that they are looking out into the room, not at the wall. Alternating your baby's position in his crib will encourage him to turn his head to different sides in order to look out into the room.

3. Place a mobile on the side of the crib that is next to the wall. This may encourage your baby to turn his head that way.

4. When your baby is awake, allow him to have supervised tummy time several times a day.

Tips & Warnings

• Many babies do not like tummy time because they are so accustomed to lying on their backs. If this is the case, place your baby on his tummy for short periods of time. Play with your baby during tummy time to distract and entertain him.

• Wearing your baby in a sling during the day will also help to prevent flat head. This is also a great way to promote bonding and can be very convenient if you are nursing.

• Even if your baby does not like it at first, be sure to include tummy time as part of your daily routine. Tummy time is important for your baby's development. Beginning tummy time early in your baby's life will help him get used to it.

Resources

• Preventing Flat Head in Infants