Week 4: Don’t miss this expert mama’s essential newborn tip
Most newborn babies can’t hold their heads pointed forward; you may notice that your baby’s head usually flops one way or the other. Because of how they were positioned in the womb, babies are actually born with a preference for turning their heads to a particular side.
Occupational therapists recommend turning your baby’s head from side to side to avoid a flat spot forming and neck muscles tightening.
Here’s how to safely and gently turn your baby’s head:
- Gently turn your baby’s head from side to side when they’re in a carrier, during tummy time, while holding them, and when they’re awake on their back.
- If you notice they’re always looking to the same side, gently position them so they are facing the other way; offer them a black and white image to look at.
- Don’t force their head to turn if it seems tight, and talk to your doctor if you have concerns.
Rachel Coley is a pediatric occupational therapist with advanced specialized training in infant neurodevelopment. Here is a link to her how-to video about head-turning.
This post is also available in: Deutsch
Posted in: 0 - 12 Weeks, Gross Motor, Visual Development, Child Development
Keep reading
0 - 12 Weeks
12 - 48 Months
Inspire an early love of reading with Lovevery Book Bundles
The benefits of reading with your child are well known, and having the right books for each developmental stage makes story time even more meaningful. Our subscriber-exclusive Book Bundles deliver more lasting favourites with every Play Kit. We know what matters to your child: the right length, the right vocabulary, the right number of words … Continued
0 - 12 Weeks
11 best Montessori toys for baby’s first year
Montessori is about tapping into a child’s natural inclination to learn. Here are 10 of the best Montessori toys for your baby's first year.
0 - 12 Weeks
The 10 best ways to grow your newborn baby’s brain
Lovevery's experts share 10 techniques you can use to protect and grow your infant's developing brain.