During the first months of your baby’s life, new mothers must follow several important guidelines to ensure proper care — especially when it comes to the newborn’s head, which is extremely delicate and not yet fully developed. One key area that needs special attention is the fontanelle, also known as the “soft spot.”
Dr. Mohamed Abu Dawood, consultant pediatrician and neonatologist, shares valuable insights and essential medical advice on how to handle your baby’s fontanelles safely and when they should naturally close.
What Is the Fontanelle?
The fontanelle is the soft area you can feel on your baby’s head — often a source of concern for new parents. It consists of soft cartilage connecting the skull bones, allowing flexibility as the baby grows.
Over time, these soft spots gradually turn into bone, forming a strong skull that protects the brain.
There are four main fontanelles on a newborn’s head:
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Anterior fontanelle (front soft spot) – about 3–4 cm wide.
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Posterior fontanelle (back soft spot) – smaller and closes earlier.
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Two anterior lateral fontanelles and two posterior lateral fontanelles – located on the sides.
When Does the Fontanelle Close?
The posterior fontanelle usually closes before birth or within 2–3 months, especially in premature babies.
The anterior fontanelle closes between 12–24 months, with the average around 14 months.
This process allows the brain to grow — nearly 80% of brain growth occurs within the first two years.
⚠️ Monitor for swelling or bulging:
A temporary bulge when your baby cries or vomits is normal.
However, persistent swelling beyond age two may indicate serious conditions like meningitis, hydrocephalus (fluid in the brain), or increased intracranial pressure — and requires immediate medical attention.
Important Tips for Caring for Your Baby’s Head
1. Avoid Using a Hat All the Time
Many mothers keep a cap on their baby’s head continuously, believing it provides warmth and protection.
However, constant use of a hat prevents the baby’s body from releasing excess heat, which can cause dangerous overheating.
It also increases the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS), especially during sleep.
👉 Use hats only when going outdoors or in cold environments — not indoors or during sleep.
2. Don’t Use Tight or Wide Headbands on Baby Girls
Studies have linked tight decorative headbands worn by infant girls to a higher risk of SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome).
Avoid using these accessories — especially during the first year — to keep your baby safe and comfortable.
3. Support the Head Correctly When Carrying Your Baby
Your baby’s neck muscles are still developing, so always support the head with both hands.
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Place your open palm under the head and neck like a cushion.
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Lift gently and smoothly without sudden movements.
This ensures that the baby’s head and spine remain properly aligned and protected.
4. Never Use a Pillow for Newborns
Avoid placing a pillow under your baby’s head — even soft or thin ones — until they are at least one year old.
Research shows that sleeping with a pillow increases the risk of SIDS and may lead to spinal deformities, such as kyphosis (back curvature), that can persist into adulthood.
Instead, place your baby on a flat, firm mattress without extra padding or elevation.
Both too-soft and uneven surfaces can be harmful to your baby’s spine and breathing.
5. Change Your Baby’s Sleeping Position Regularly
Letting your baby sleep in the same position every night can lead to flat head syndrome (plagiocephaly) and torticollis (stiff neck muscles).
To prevent this:
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Alternate your baby’s head direction during sleep (left one night, right the next).
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Change the position of the crib occasionally to encourage your baby to turn their head in different directions.
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During diaper changes, gently stretch and move your baby’s neck to improve flexibility.
Final Advice
Caring for your newborn’s head is a vital part of early motherhood.
By understanding how the fontanelles develop and following these simple yet essential guidelines, you can help ensure your baby’s healthy brain growth, safety, and comfort.
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