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How to Tell If Your Baby Has a Flat Head: Normal vs Mild, Moderate, and Severe Shapes

ByDiwanshu Dika
Updated: 29 Jan 2026, 5:00 pm
Medically Reviewed by Dr. N Sapna Lulla, Lead Consultant – Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Aster CMI Hospital

Flat head shapes in babies are common and usually manageable. Understanding regular head shape changes and recognising mild, moderate, or severe flattening helps parents take early action. Following simple checks at home, proper positioning, tummy time, and medical guidance may help most babies achieve healthy head-shape development.

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Have you noticed a change in your baby’s head shape and wondered whether it is part of normal development? Many parents notice mild flattening during the early months, mainly because babies spend a significant amount of time lying on their backs. A baby’s skull is naturally soft and flexible to support rapid brain growth, but this softness also makes it sensitive to repeated pressure on one area.
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When the same part of the head rests against a surface for long periods, the skull can gradually change shape. In most cases, these changes are harmless and improve as babies gain head control, move more, and spend less time lying down.

Let’s discuss the different levels of flattening, steps to check your baby’s head shape at home, and an essential tip to improve flat head shapes.

What are the Different Levels of Flat Head in Babies?

Flat head changes often develop slowly, and spotting the level of flattening early makes it easier to manage and improve. Here are the different levels of flat head in babies.

  • Mild Flat Head Shape
Mild flattening shows as a small flat area, usually at the back or on one side of the head. The head still looks round primarily, and the ears and face look even. Babies with mild flattening usually move their heads well and seem comfortable. With regular tummy time, changing head positions, and encouraging movement, the head shape often improves on its own.

  • Moderate Flat Head Shape
Moderate flattening looks more noticeable, especially when you look at your baby’s head from above. One side of the head may appear flatter, and the ears may not line up evenly. Some babies may prefer turning their head to one side. At this stage, advice from a healthcare professional can help guide better positioning and, if needed, gentle exercises to improve head shape.

  • Severe Flat Head Shape
Severe flattening causes apparent unevenness of the head that you can see from different angles. The face may also start to look uneven. These cases need medical assessment to decide the best treatment. Doctors may suggest physiotherapy or helmet therapy to help guide the baby's head into a healthier shape as it grows.

How to Check Your Baby’s Head Shape at Home?

Parents can easily check their baby’s head shape during daily care routines, such as bathing and feeding, or when the baby is resting calmly. Here’s how to check your baby’s head shape at home.

  • Look at your baby’s head from above.
Gently view your baby’s head from the top while they are calm or asleep.

  • Check for flattening at the back or sides.
Run your hand lightly over the back and sides of your baby’s head. Notice any flat areas, especially at the back or on one side.

  • Observe ear alignment
Look at your baby’s ears from above. If one ear appears pushed slightly forward compared to the other, it may indicate uneven pressure on the skull.

  • Watch head-turning preference
Notice whether your baby often turns their head to the same side when resting or sleeping.

How to Improve Flat Head Shapes in Babies?

Simple daily habits can make a real difference in improving flat head shapes, especially when parents start early and stay consistent. Here’s how to improve flat head shapes in babies.

  • Increase Supervised Tummy Time Daily
Tummy time plays an essential role in healthy head and muscle development. When your baby spends time on their tummy while awake and supervised, they use their neck, shoulders, and upper body muscles more. Thus, it reduces the time the head spends resting on flat surfaces and improves head control.

Tip: Start with short sessions several times a day and gradually increase the duration as your baby becomes stronger and more comfortable.

  • Change Head Positions During Sleep and Feeding
Although babies should always sleep on their backs for safety, you can gently vary the direction their head faces. Changing the side your baby faces in the crib and alternating arms during feeding help with head movement. These small changes help spread pressure across different areas of the skull and prevent flattening in one spot.

  • Limit Extended Time in Car Seats and Carriers
Car seats, swings, and carriers support safety and convenience, but prolonged use in these positions can place constant pressure on the back of the head. Allowing your baby more time on safe, flat surfaces during awake periods helps relieve this pressure. Holding your baby upright or allowing supervised floor play gives the head a break from constant contact.

  • Encourage Your Baby to Turn Their Head Both Ways
Babies often turn their heads toward familiar sounds or sights. Placing toys, mirrors, or your voice on both sides allows your baby to look in different directions. Such balanced movement helps strengthen neck muscles evenly and reduces the risk of ongoing pressure on one side of the head.

  • Follow Professional Advice When Needed
If head shape changes do not improve or appear more noticeable, seeking professional guidance supports timely care. Healthcare providers can assess head shape, identify movement preferences, and recommend appropriate exercises or treatments. Early medical support often leads to better outcomes and reduces the need for more intensive interventions later.

Note: Before changing head positions or starting new positioning techniques, consult a qualified healthcare professional to ensure these practices are safe and appropriate for your baby’s age, development, and individual health needs.

Understanding the difference between normal and varying levels of flat head shapes helps parents take timely action. With early awareness, simple positioning strategies, and professional guidance when needed, most babies achieve healthy head shape development as they grow.

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FAQs on How to Tell If Your Baby Has a Flat Head: Normal vs Mild, Moderate, and Severe Shapes


  1. Is flat head common in babies?
    Yes, many babies develop mild flattening, which often improves with simple care.
  2. At what age should I worry?
    If flattening persists beyond 4-6 months, seek medical advice.
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