February, 2026
Why Do Babies Get Flat Heads?
Many parents notice changes in their baby’s head shape and immediately wonder what caused it. It can feel confusing, especially when everything else about your baby seems healthy and comfortable.
This guide explains why babies commonly develop flat spots, how everyday positions and movement play a role, and when it may help to look more closely. It is based on the same head-shape principles used by pediatric physiotherapists and clinicians worldwide.
Why babies get flat heads in the first months
Babies get flat heads because their skulls are soft and can be shaped by repeated pressure in the first months of life. When a baby spends a lot of time resting with their head in the same position, gentle pressure on one area can gradually lead to flattening, most often at the back or on one side.
This does not mean parents are doing anything wrong. Sleeping on the back is still the safest and recommended position for babies, even though it can contribute to flat spots. Flat head shapes are a common side effect of normal early routines.
What a baby’s head is like in the first months
A baby's skull is made up of several soft plates that allow the brain to grow quickly. These plates are flexible by design, which means head shape can change more easily in response to pressure, especially in the early months. To understand what this looks like in practice, read our guide on what does a flat head look like.
How everyday positions influence head shape
Most flat heads develop because of repeated pressure on the same area of the head. This often happens when babies
☐ Lie on their backs for sleep
☐ Spend long periods resting in the same position
☐ Naturally they prefer turning their head to one side.
Common situations where pressure builds up
Pressure can build up when a baby sleeps with their head turned the same way, rests frequently in car seats or bouncers, or feeds more comfortably while looking in one direction. Over time, staying in these positions for long periods can influence head shape.
Why some babies are more affected than others
Some babies are more affected because they have a strong preferred side, tight neck muscles, were born prematurely, or move less in the early weeks. When a baby consistently rests on one side for long periods, that area of the head is more likely to flatten. Tight neck muscles in particular are often linked to torticollis in babies, where a preferred head position develops due to muscle tightness on one side.
How parents can recognize contributing factors
Parents may notice their baby
☐ Often looks to the same side,
☐ Dislikes turning their head the other way,
☐ Spends much of the day in similar resting positions.
Recognizing these patterns early can help parents understand what may be contributing to head shape changes.
Why it is hard to pinpoint the cause by looking alone
Parents may notice their baby
☐ Often looks to the same side,
☐ Dislikes turning their head the other way,
☐ Spends much of the day in similar resting positions.
Recognizing these patterns early can help parents understand what may be contributing to head shape changes.
How measurement helps clarify what is happening
A scan can help clarify whether
☐ Flattening is present,
☐ How pronounced it is,
☐ Whether it is changing over time.
This turns general observations into clear information that can guide calm next steps.
Common questions parents ask
Did I cause this?
Flat head shapes usually develop from normal early routines, not mistakes.
Can this be prevented?
Gentle variation in positions can help, especially early on. For practical tips, read our guide on how to prevent flat head in baby.
Will it always get worse?
In many cases, head shape can stabilize or improve, depending on age, movement, and awareness.
Writen by Elly van der Grift
Elly van der Grift is the co-founder of Skully Care and a pediatric physiotherapist with over 30 years of experience. Her mission is to provide top care for babies with skull deformities. With her infectious enthusiasm, she shares simple, effective tips that can make a big difference for your baby. Working with Elly, you'll feel confident and supported in your baby’s journey to better health.