When do babies start to lift their heads?

The development of a newborn baby is a fantastic process to witness. One of the milestones parents eagerly awaits is when their baby starts lifting their head. This is an essential skill for babies, as it is the first step towards developing stronger neck muscles and eventually being able to sit up, crawl, and walk.

Developing neck muscles is crucial for babies, as it helps support their head and control its movement. Babies have very weak neck muscles at birth, and their heads may flop around when held upright. Over time as they grow and develop, babies strengthen their neck muscles, allowing them to hold their head up and move it more easily.

Most babies lift their heads during tummy time when placed on their stomachs and are encouraged to look up and around. This is an essential activity for babies, as it helps to strengthen their neck and back muscles and promotes the development of gross motor skills.

Babies typically start to lift their heads around the age of 1-2 months. They can lift their head briefly while lying on their stomach but still need support to keep it up. By around 3-4 months, babies can lift their heads and chest off the ground while on their stomachs, using their arms for support.

Babies can hold their heads up for longer periods as they continue to develop and strengthen their neck muscles. By around 4-6 months, babies will be able to hold their heads up steady while sitting upright, and by 6-7 months, they can sit up on their own without support.

It is important to remember that all babies develop at their own pace, and there is a wide range of what is considered normal. Some babies may start lifting their heads earlier or later than others, which is perfectly normal. If you have concerns about your baby’s development, it is always best to talk to your paediatrician.

In conclusion, babies typically lift their heads at around 1-2 months of age and develop stronger neck muscles over time. Tummy time is an essential activity for babies, as it helps promote gross motor development and strengthens their neck and back muscles. Remember to celebrate your baby’s milestones, whether big or small and enjoy watching them grow and develop into little people.