What is the soft spot?
Your baby was born with two noticeable soft spots called fontanels on the top and back of his head. Your baby’s skull is made up of bones that connect at the soft spots which are made of a tough membrane which allows baby’s head to be flexible. This is necessary so that baby’s head can fit through the birth canal during labour. Without the soft spots, baby’s head might get stuck on the way out! This is why you might have noticed some baby’s head are a shape of a cone when they’re born.
Why so babies have soft spots
Other than helping it fit through the birth canal, the soft spots are also to allow room for baby’s head to grow. As baby’s brain grows, his skull needs to be able to expand. The soft spot on the top of baby’s head may actually get bigger during his first 2 to 3 months to accommodate his rapid brain growth. After which, it starts to close up.
Should I avoid touching the soft spots?
Many parents worry that they’re putting pressure on baby’s brain. But it’s okay to touch it! Just be gentle, of course. The soft spots is actually a thick membrane so you won’t hurt baby by touching it.
When will the soft spot close?
The posterior fontanel, the spot at the back of the head, will close first. It usually closes by 2 – 4 months old. The anterior fontanel on the front of the head closes much later. On average, it closes at around 18 months, but earlier at 9 – 12 months for some.
During your baby’s 18 month milestone check-up, the nurses or doctor will examine the spot to ensure that it is closing normally.
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