At birth, newborns have little control over their heads due to underdeveloped motor skills and weak neck muscles. During the first few months, you’ll need to support your baby’s head and neck whenever you lift, hold, carry, or lay them down.
1 to 2 months
By the end of the first month, your baby may briefly lift their head and turn it from side to side while lying on their tummy. Around 6 to 8 weeks, particularly strong and coordinated babies might even begin to raise their heads while lying on their back.
3 to 4 months
By now, head control improves significantly. Your baby can lift their head to about 45 degrees during tummy time and hold it steady. Many 4-month-olds will do a “mini push-up,” pushing up on their arms to lift both their head and chest. Around this time, babies also begin holding their heads steady when placed in a sitting position.
5 to 6 months
By 6 months, most babies can hold their heads strong and steady. When pulled into a sitting position, they will bring their head forward in coordination with their movement. Before placing your baby in a jogging stroller or baby backpack, make sure they can hold their head up independently without any extra support.
