New parent-friendly videos, supported by the WCH Foundation, are helping families understand and prevent flat spots in babies’ head shape.
The Community Physiotherapy service at the Women’s and Children’s Hospital Network supports infants and young children with orthopaedic and neuro-developmental concerns. Delivered by two dedicated physiotherapists across three CaFHS centres in metropolitan Adelaide, the service regularly sees families seeking advice about flat spots on their baby’s head, known as plagiocephaly and brachycephaly.
These conditions can occur when babies spend long periods lying on their backs with pressure on the same area. They can also develop if a baby favours looking to one side, has limited tummy time, or spends extended time in car seats, prams, or baby seats.
To empower families with practical, accessible advice, the WCH Foundation proudly supported the creation of a new series of educational videos. These resources guide parents through simple, at-home strategies to prevent and manage flat spots, including daily supervised tummy time, encouraging babies to look both ways, varying how they are held and carried, and ensuring plenty of time to play on the floor.
Physiotherapist Melissa Keough said the right information, provided early, can make a remarkable difference.
“Head shape is a common cause for concern for parents of new babies. It can be managed by employing strategies at home, and in fact if started early, head shape issues can be prevented from occurring in the first place.”
By helping fund and develop these videos, the Foundation is supporting families to feel confident, informed, and reassured during their baby’s early development.
View the video below.
