Babies are sometimes born with a tight muscle on one side of their neck caused by there position in the womb. Other babies less than one month tend to favor looking to one side or looking straight up when sleeping, this may cause their head to be misshapen if they continue to lie like this over several weeks.
Signs to look for are:
- Head tilted to one side
- Unable to turn their head or favors looking in one direction.
- Very round face with flattened side or back of the head.
- eyes or ears differing in size.
- If you notice any of these signs I suggest you contact your Early Childhood Nurse or Doctor.
Prevention and assistance in correcting the problem:
To prevent a baby favoring holding his head on one side alternate which side his head rests. To help him turn his head either to the left or right alternate which end of the cot your baby sleeps. Babies tend to look towards the direction from which their caregiver comes. They will look towards the door where you enter. Therefore changing his cot position from one end of the cot to the other will help him to turn his head from one side to the other.
Supervised tummy time is very important while baby is awake (see Articles on play and learning - How important is Tummy Time for your baby?). Limit unsupported sitting until baby is able to put himself into and out of a sittling position himself. This includes equiptment such as jumping or sitting rings where baby needs to sit.
If there is no improvement or if you child has had this problem for some time you will need to see a physiotherapist who will be able to show you some exercises to help stretch tightened neck muscles.
Tips: Avoid tea-tree mattresses as they form a hollow into which baby’s head rest this may cause flatness on one side.
Remember: Encourage baby to turn away from the direction they favour by attracting their attention to the other side with toys or movement.
If you would like more information on this and other similar topics our E-books are packed full of practical parenting tips. Down load an E-Book specifically related to your child's age group through Publications at Our Shop.
How Cradle 2 Kindy Can Help
Cradle 2 Kindy can help you with other health concerns for children from birth to five years old. Call and see how Cradle 2 Kindy’s can assist you with your concerns.
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Also see: What happens at a Coaching session?
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