Your baby has little control over his head  at birth. This is because the motor skills and neck muscles are quite weak.

When will my baby be able to hold his head up

Your  baby may be able to hold his head up when he is about a month old. At around 4 months, he will be able to hold his head up when sitting up. By the sixth month, his neck muscles and head control should be strong.

How will my baby’s head control develop ?

Newborn : A newborn will rely on you for head and neck support for the first month or so. You can take advantage of this time to gaze into your baby’s eyes and bond better with your baby.

1 to 2 months :  By the end of the first month, your baby should be able to briefly lift his head and move it from side to side when lying on his stomach. A very strong and coordinated baby should be able to lift his head when lying on his back around 6 to 8 weeks. When you hold your baby on your shoulder, he should be able to hold his head up shakily  for a short time. He should also be able to hold his head up in a car seat or front pack. However you have to wait till he is able to hold his head steadily before using a jogging stroller or back pack. When you use  a sling, make sure the baby’s face is visible because he cannot move his head and breathe easily.

3 to 4 months : Head control is much more improved around this time. The baby may be able to hold his head at a 45 degree angle when sleeping on his tummy and hold it steadily. You may be able to carry him in a backpack now.

5 to 6 months :  The baby can hold his head steadily and erect. He will flex his head forward when pulled in a sitting position. He  may be ready for a jogging stroller now.

How to help your baby establish good head control.

Head control is very important in helping  the baby  roll over, sit up and  crawl. It is also helpful during swallowing of solid foods and sitting in a high chair.

You need to be careful until your baby’s head is well established.  It is important to cradle your baby’s neck and head  during the first few months when you hold him, lift him  or carry him. It is good that the baby have some tummy time when he is awake to strengthen his neck muscles.

From about 3 to 6 months, prop your baby up in a sitting position with enough neck and head support. You can  use pillows or set him on your lap with his back against you. You should never leave the baby unattended because he could  topple over.

If your baby is having problems  with head control even slightly at 3 months, mention it to your doctor. All children develop differently and head control is no exception. Premature babies may  reach  developmental milestones later than their peers. Check with your child’s doctor if you have any concerns.