Flat spots and head shape

Medically-informed · Sources: MedlinePlus · Updated June 2026 · 3 min read

Why flat spots happen

Back-sleeping is non-negotiable for safety — and it means the back of the head logs serious surface hours. Mild flattening (positional plagiocephaly) is commonly seen and mostly cosmetic and reversible at this age.

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Rotation is the strategy

Alternate which end of the crib baby's head points each night, switch carrying arms, move the play mat relative to the light — babies turn toward interesting things, and the turning is the therapy.

Is this normal for your baby?

FirstWeeks answers with your baby’s age and today’s log in mind — with pediatric sources attached.

Start free — 14 days, no card

Tummy time is head-shape time

Every awake minute off the back of the head counts double: strength program and pressure relief in one. Supervised side-lying play counts too.

Container audit

Car seats, bouncers and swings all press the same spot. Use them for transport and short breaks, not as default real estate — floor beats container for both head and hips.

When to ask

Noticeable asymmetry, a strong preference to look one way (possible tight neck muscle — very treatable), or flattening that seems to progress — раise at the next checkup; early intervention is simple, late is harder.