A Gentle Guide for Parents and a Learning Opportunity for Students and Budding Professionals
Bringing a newborn into the world is a beautiful journey, but it also brings many questions and worries—especially for first-time parents. One of the most common concerns we hear –
“Is my baby’s head flat /deshape?”
This blog Understanding Newborn Head Shape post supports that video by offering clear, evidence-based guidance to help both parents and budding professionals understand what’s normal, what’s not, and how to support a newborn’s early development confidently.
Why Do Parents Worry About Head Shape?
It’s completely natural for parents to feel anxious when something about their newborn seems unusual. The head is particularly sensitive—both physically ,mentally, emotionally and looks—because it’s closely associated with brain development and thought of parents and family tree,
And of course it should matter as head shape add one looks and also matters for babies day to day activities
Some of the common concerns include:
- “Is the shape of my baby’s head okay?”
- “Does an odd-shaped head mean there is a developmental issue?”
These questions are valid—but not always reasons for alarm.
Flat Head Syndrome in Newborns (Positional Plagiocephaly): Causes, Types, Remedies & Timeline for Correction
What is Flat Head Syndrome?
Flat head syndrome, medically known as positional plagiocephaly, is a condition where a baby develops a flat spot on the back or side of the head. It’s quite common, especially in infants who spend a lot of time lying on their backs.
Causes of Flat Head in Babies
- Positional Pressure:
- Prolonged lying on the back or resting the head in one position.
- Often seen in babies who sleep or rest in the same position for long hours.
- Prolonged lying on the back or resting the head in one position.
- Torticollis (tight neck muscles):
- Makes it hard for the baby to turn their head both ways.
- Leads to repeated pressure on one side.
- Makes it hard for the baby to turn their head both ways.
- Premature Birth:
- Premature babies have softer skulls and spend more time in NICUs lying on their backs.
- Premature babies have softer skulls and spend more time in NICUs lying on their backs.
- Multiple Births:
- Less space in the womb can lead to abnormal head shapes.
- Less space in the womb can lead to abnormal head shapes.
- Womb Positioning:
- Some babies are born with an uneven head shape due to limited space in the uterus.
- Some babies are born with an uneven head shape due to limited space in the uterus.
Types of Flat Head Shapes
| Type | Description |
| Plagiocephaly | Flatness on one side of the back of the head; the forehead may bulge on the same side. |
| Brachycephaly | Flatness across the back of the head; head looks wider and shorter. |
| Scaphocephaly | Long, narrow head; often seen in premature babies who lie sideways for long periods. |
Age Timeline for Improvement and Intervention
| Age | Condition | Remedy | Effectiveness |
| 0–3 months | Early flat spots may develop | Repositioning techniques | Very effective if started early |
| 3–6 months | Skull still moldable; flatness becomes noticeable | Tummy time, repositioning, physical/Occupational therapy | Still highly effective |
| 6–9 months | Skull begins to harden; improvement slows | Helmet therapy may be considered | Moderate to high, depending on severity |
| 9–12 months | Bones harden further | Helmet therapy if needed, continue exercises | Improvement possible but slower |
| 12–18 months | Skull mostly formed | Observation and reassurance | Limited improvement |
| After 2 years | Bones are set | Surgery only in rare, severe cases | Very limited natural correction |
Remedies for Flat Head in Babies
1. Repositioning Therapy
- Change baby’s head position frequently during sleep, play, and feeding.
- Alternate sides when laying them down.
- Encourage turning head both ways.
2. Tummy Time
- Start from day one under supervision.
- Helps strengthen neck and shoulder muscles.
- Reduces pressure on the back of the head.
3. Physical /Occupational Therapy
- Especially if torticollis is present.
- Teaches stretching and strengthening exercises.
4. Helmet Therapy (Cranial Orthosis)
- Custom-fitted helmet gently shapes the baby’s head.
- Usually started between 4 to 6 months for best results.
- Worn 23 hours a day for 3–6 months.
5. Babywearing
- Carry baby upright in slings or carriers to minimize pressure on the head.
6. Avoid Overuse of Car Seats & Rockers
- Avoid leaving babies in containers for prolonged times.
Prognosis: Can It Be Fixed?
- YES — in most cases, flat head syndrome corrects over time, especially if addressed early.
- Mild to moderate cases often resolve by 12 months with repositioning and tummy time.
- Severe cases may benefit from helmet therapy, with correction possible up to 18 months.
- After age 2, only minor visual improvements are expected without medical intervention.
When to Seek Professional Help?
- If the flatness is severe or worsening.
- If baby prefers turning the head to one side only.
- If there’s no improvement by 4–6 months, despite efforts.
- Pediatricians may refer to a craniofacial specialist or physical therapist.
Final Words for Parents
Flat head syndrome can be worrying, but it’s treatable and mostly cosmetic. Early awareness and proactive care — including tummy time, repositioning, and therapy — go a long way. In most cases, children grow up healthy, happy, and without any long-term issues.
📏 Understanding Head Size in Newborns
Head size in newborns is measured using a simple tool: a measuring tape placed around the largest part of the baby’s head. This is called the head circumference, and it’s routinely checked during pediatric visits.
✅ Normal range:
For most full-term babies, the normal head circumference at birth is between 33 cm to 38 cm.
Factors affecting head size:
- Genetics (parental head size)
- Birth process (molding during delivery)
- Gestational age (preterm babies have smaller heads)
- Medical history
🧠 What Matters More: Size or Development?
While head size gives some clues about brain growth, it is just one part of a much bigger developmental picture.
As shown in the video, our therapist emphasizes observing:
- Eye contact and social smile
- Muscle tone and reflexes
- Feeding behavior
- General alertness
If all these signs are positive, a slightly larger or smaller head is often just a variation of normal.
For New Professionals: What to Watch and How to Educate
For early-career therapists or medical professionals, it’s important to:
- Reassure the parents with evidence and empathy.
- Track head growth over time, rather than relying on a single measurement.
- Look holistically at the baby’s behavior and development.
- Refer when necessary: Unusual head shapes (like plagiocephaly or signs of hydrocephalus) should be monitored and, in some cases, referred to a pediatric neurologist.
Our therapist in the video models exactly how to approach these moments with clarity and compassion—something new professionals can learn from and replicate.
Shama Foundation’s Message to Parents
We understand the love, the concern, and the sleepless nights that come with parenting a newborn. The shape or size of your baby’s head may seem worrying, but it’s often a natural variation—not a medical emergency.
If you’re ever unsure, our doors are open. Our therapists are here not only to support your child but also to guide you through your parenting journey with confidence.
When to Seek a Professional Opinion
Contact your pediatrician or a pediatric therapist if you notice:
- Rapid changes in head size
- Bulging or sunken fontanelles (soft spots)
- Poor feeding and excessive sleepiness
- Delay in developmental milestones
Early intervention is powerful—but only when guided by proper evaluation.
About the Video
In this featured video, you’ll see a pediatric therapist at Shama Foundation calmly and clearly addressing the topic of head size in a newborn baby. Through hands-on guidance and real-life visuals, she offers a message of reassurance, awareness, and education for both parents and health professionals.
Whether you’re a parent seeking clarity or a professional learning the art of communication and observation, this short but impactful video is a must-watch.
Final Thoughts
Every child is unique. Every parent’s concern is valid. And every professional has a role to play in building a world where parents feel supported—not scared.
At Shama Foundation, we believe in hope, healing, and transformation—starting from the very first days of life.
📍 Watch the video, share it with new parents or colleagues, and reach out to us for workshops, consultations, and early intervention support.
Together, we can ensure that every baby gets the nurturing start they deserve.
