April, 2026
Soft Spot on Head of Newborn
The soft spot on the head of a newborn, called a fontanelle, is a normal opening between skull bones that allows the brain and skull to grow during early life.
Pediatric sources such as the Mayo Clinic and Cleveland Clinic explain that babies are born with several soft spots that gradually close as the skull develops.
Many parents worry that the newborn soft spot is fragile, but it is protected by a tough membrane and is a normal part of healthy development. This does not automatically mean something is wrong if you notice or feel the soft spot.
The largest soft spot usually closes between about 9 and 18 months of age.
What the newborn soft spot is
The soft spot, or fontanelle, is where skull bones have not yet fused together. These spaces allow the skull to remain flexible while the brain grows rapidly during infancy. Babies are typically born with two main fontanelles, one on the top of the head and one toward the back.
Why babies are born with soft spots
Soft spots allow the skull bones to move slightly during birth and expand afterward as the brain grows. During the first year of life, the brain nearly doubles in size. The fontanelles and sutures together create a flexible structure that supports rapid brain growth.
Where the soft spots are located
The most noticeable soft spot sits on the top front of the head and is called the anterior fontanelle. A smaller one at the back is called the posterior fontanelle. Doctors check these areas during routine exams because they provide clues about growth and development.
What the soft spot normally feels like
The fontanelle usually feels soft and slightly firm at the same time, similar to a flexible membrane. Sometimes parents notice gentle pulsing in this area, which reflects normal blood flow beneath the surface.
When soft spots close
Fontanelles close gradually as skull bones fuse together. The posterior fontanelle typically closes within the first few months of life. The anterior fontanelle, the larger soft spot, usually closes sometime between 9 and 18 months.
What the soft spot does not mean
Many parents worry that touching the soft spot could harm the baby. In reality, the fontanelle is covered by a strong membrane that protects the brain. Normal washing, brushing hair, or gentle touching will not hurt your baby.
What pediatric experts explain
Pediatric physiotherapist Elly van der Grift explains, “Fontanelles exist because a baby’s brain grows rapidly in the first year of life. These flexible spaces allow the skull to expand safely while protecting the brain.” Pediatric hospitals such as Cleveland Clinic and Mayo Clinic emphasize that the soft spot is a normal developmental feature.
When parents should seek medical advice
Parents may seek medical advice if the soft spot appears unusually bulging, very sunken, or closes earlier than expected. A sunken fontanelle can sometimes appear if a baby is dehydrated, such as during illness with vomiting or reduced feeding. In most cases, the fontanelle looks and behaves normally as babies grow. For context on rarer conditions linked to early closure, read our article on how common is craniosynostosis.
Common questions parents ask
Is the soft spot on a newborn’s head normal?
Yes, soft spots are a normal part of skull development.
Can touching the soft spot hurt my baby?
No, the area is protected by a tough membrane.
When does the soft spot close?
The largest fontanelle usually closes between 9 and 18 months.
Why does the soft spot pulse?
A gentle pulse may reflect normal blood flow beneath the membrane.
Should I worry if I can see the soft spot?
Not usually. Seeing or feeling the fontanelle is common in newborns. In the meantime, focusing on varied positioning and tummy time can support healthy head shape — read our guide on how to prevent flat head in baby for practical tips.
Writen by Elly van der Grift
Elly van der Grift is a pediatric physiotherapist with more than 30 years of experience helping families understand infant head growth and development.