The skull of the baby is flexible and may become flat if the baby is laid too often on its back. While positional plagiocephaly or “flat head syndrome” is unsightly for the head, it has no effect on the development of the brain.
To avoid this, carefully position your baby’s head alternately to the right, then to the left when it is lying down. Because the baby’s neck muscles are weak, infants tend to keep their heads on the same side. Change the position of the bed from time to time to encourage the baby to look the other way. When awake, vary positions: put the baby on its side or on its stomach for short periods, but always under supervision.
For further information : brochure Prévenir la «tête plate» chez le nourrisson (FR)
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To save your child’s head, use the baby bouncer (or “babyrelax”) in moderation. After travelling by car, take the baby out of the baby car seat. Your baby must not spend more than two hours a day there. Favor the pram, the sling or the baby carrier for walks. In a vertical position, your baby will gradually learn to hold its head up.
