When Do Babies Hold Their Head Up?

Delicate and tiny, infants have droopy heads that unpredictably flop from side to side. In other moments, your baby shows amazing strength by lifting or turning their head while resting on your shoulder.

So, when will your baby hold their head up? As your newborn grows, they'll soon raise their head and build the strength for neck control. Here's your guide to your baby's development over the first few months and how you can help them build strength.

Baby's Neck and Upper Body Development

When my oldest was a newborn, I remember being shocked that he could lift his head while I tried burping him. I thought that babies had floppy heads and no control over their neck muscles. Now I know that while sometimes floppy and unpredictable, babies do have some neck strength at birth.

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) explains that even newborns can move their head from side to side. However, they don't have much control or neck strength for a few weeks. Especially during the first few weeks of your baby's life, it's important to support their head and neck while holding them.

When Do Babies Start Holding Their Head Up?

Babies strengthen muscles quickly as they get to know the world around them. The AAP says that babies pull their head up independently by around two months of age. You might notice your baby doing this during tummy time as they turn from one side to the other. Also, your baby should hold their head straight up for short periods while on their belly.

As a mom of three, I understand the importance of knowing what signs to bring up with a pediatrician. I found the AAP motor delay tool helpful when my kids were young.

For head control, the first milestone is two months. You should notice your baby is able to lift their head during tummy time. In the tool, you can see a video that shows both typical and delayed development. This way, you can have a better sense of your baby's skills and when to bring up concerns with a professional.

When Can Babies Have Control of Their Head?

Around 4 months, your baby will have much more strength to hold up their neck and head. At this point, your baby should have good neck control while you hold them upright.

One test the AAP recommends is to check your baby's neck and head control when pulling them into a sitting position. First, lie your baby down on their back. Then, gently pull them by the arms into a sitting position. Your baby should hold their head up as you pull them forward.

This strength in your baby's neck will help them in their next developmental steps. Soon, your baby will learn to sit independently and crawl!

How to Support Your Baby's Neck and Upper Body Strength: Tips from a Pediatric Physical Therapist

Recently, I spoke with Pediatric Physical Therapist, June Gehman Deane. I asked her about how to help babies build neck, head, and chest strength. She explained that babies build muscles and skills through tummy time.

What is Tummy Time?

Tummy time is essential for newborns. To do it, simply put your baby, tummy down, onto a soft surface such as a carpet or play mat. 

Your baby should have several opportunities for tummy time every day. The sessions can be short, a few minutes each. As your baby grows, they will enjoy tummy time more and more.

Tips for Babies Who Don't Like Tummy Time from a Pediatric Physical Therapist

My firstborn always hated tummy time. However, there is more than one way to do tummy time!

Gehman Deane says parents can start tummy time while still at the hospital. Simply place your baby on your chest and lean back a bit. The closer to horizontal, the more baby will have to work to lift their head. This modified tummy time is great for babies who don't like to be on a play mat.

"Your baby's favorite thing to look at is your face," Gehman Deane asserts. So, you might try doing tummy with your baby. Lie down facing your baby so they can see you during tummy time.

Another tip Gehman Deane offers is trying side lying. Your baby can still develop muscles while lying on their side with both arms in front of them. Add some toys or a book to look at to distract your baby.

Looking for more tips? See our full blog about tummy time, including tips and suggestions from June Gehman Deane, who holds a Masters Degree in Physical Therapy.

Sources:

1. American Academy of Pediatrics - Movement Milestones 0 to 3 months

2. AAP Motor Delay Tool