As a new parent, your baby’s soft spots may have you feeling a bit uneasy. You may be wondering when they will close up and what they eventually develop into. Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered.
First, let’s talk about what the soft spots are. Your baby’s skull is made up of several bones that will eventually fuse together. However, in order for your baby’s head to fit through the birth canal, these bones have not yet fused. This creates gaps called fontanels, or soft spots, in between the bones.
The anterior, or front, fontanel is the larger of the two and is located on the top of your baby’s head. It is diamond-shaped and typically measures about 2-3 inches across. The posterior, or back, fontanel is smaller and triangular-shaped, located at the back of the head.
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When do the soft spots close up?
The soft spots will gradually close up on their own as the bones of the skull fuse together. The anterior fontanel usually closes between 12-18 months of age, while the posterior fontanel may close as early as 2 months or as late as 12-18 months.
What do the soft spots eventually develop into?
As the bones of the skull fuse together, the soft spots will eventually become part of the skull. The bones will grow and reshape to form your baby’s head and face.
The bones of the skull are divided into two main parts: the cranium and the face. The cranium is made up of eight bones that protect the brain. The face is made up of 14 bones that give shape and structure to the face and allow for movement of the jaw and mouth.
As your baby grows and develops, the bones of the skull will continue to change shape and size to accommodate their growing brain and facial features.
Why are the soft spots important?
The soft spots serve an important function in your baby’s development. They allow for the bones of the skull to shift and overlap during birth, making it easier for your baby to pass through the birth canal.
In addition, the soft spots also allow for your baby’s brain to grow and develop. The brain grows rapidly during the first year of life and needs room to expand. The soft spots provide space for the brain to grow and also allow the skull to adjust to accommodate the growth.
What can I do to protect my baby’s soft spots?
The soft spots are protected by a strong membrane and are not as fragile as they may seem. However, it is important to avoid putting pressure on the soft spots or handling your baby’s head roughly.
When holding your baby, support their head with your hand and avoid putting pressure on the soft spots. Also, make sure that your baby’s head is not resting in one position for too long, as this can cause flattening of the skull.
If you notice any unusual bulging or sunken areas on your baby’s head, or if you have any concerns about their development, be sure to talk to your pediatrician.
Conclusion
In short, your baby’s soft spots will eventually close up and become part of the skull as the bones fuse together. They serve an important function in your baby’s development and it’s important to take care not to put pressure on them. If you have any concerns about your baby’s development, be sure to talk to your pediatrician.
Remember, every baby develops at their own pace and in their own way. Enjoy the journey and cherish every moment with your little one!
Frequently Asked Questions
- When do the soft spots close up? The anterior fontanel usually closes between 12-18 months of age, while the posterior fontanel may close as early as 2 months or as late as 12-18 months.
- What do the soft spots eventually develop into? As the bones of the skull fuse together, the soft spots will eventually become part of the skull. The bones will grow and reshape to form your baby’s head and face.
- Why are the soft spots important? The soft spots serve an important function in your baby’s development. They allow for the bones of the skull to shift and overlap during birth, making it easier for your baby to pass through the birth canal. In addition, the soft spots also allow for your baby’s brain to grow and develop.
- What can I do to protect my baby’s soft spots? When holding your baby, support their head with your hand and avoid putting pressure on the soft spots. Also, make sure that your baby’s head is not resting in one position for too long, as this can cause flattening of the skull.
- What if I have concerns about my baby’s development? If you notice any unusual bulging or sunken areas on your baby’s head, or if you have any concerns about their development, be sure to talk to your pediatrician.