To minimise the chances of your baby getting Flat Head Syndrome and to ensure that your baby’s head is in the perfect shape, look for any change in shape in the baby’s head and prior to that and most importantly, how your baby prefers to lie. Does he/she always look in the same direction with the head turned the same way? If so, your baby may have an increased chance of getting a flattened spot on his/her head.

To prevent Flat Head Syndrome occurring, you should:

• » Ensure that your baby gets an adequate amount of ‘tummy time’ everyday.

• » Regularly change your baby’s position.

• » Encourage, by use of toy repositioning & playtime distraction, baby to turn his/her head to the side least favoured.

• » Carry your baby in your arms or in a sling.

• » When your baby is on a flat firm surface consider placing a specifically designed head rest under the baby’s head to reduce pressure.

Paediatric physiotherapists or osteopaths can also be extremely helpful in assisting your baby to increase his/her head movement and reduce the incidence of favouring a particular side to lie on.

Unfortunately, Flat Head Syndrome is now quite common and it is thought that up to 20% of infants will be affected. The good news is that Flat Head Syndrome can be prevented if parents and carers know what to look out for and the simple techniques to use.

The most important thing for you to do if you notice a change in your baby’s head shape is to seek medical advice.