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When Can Babies Hold Up Their Head?
Discover when babies typically hold up their head, what milestones to expect, and tips to support your baby's early development safely.
5 min
23/11/2025
Head control is one of the first big physical milestones in a baby’s life. It is a sign that their neck, shoulders and upper body are getting stronger, and it lays the foundation for all the exciting milestones that follow. Rolling, sitting, crawling and even early balance all begin with this simple skill.
Understanding head control in babies
Head control means a baby can keep their head steady without it flopping forwards, backwards or to the side. Newborns are born with very weak neck muscles and rely entirely on caregivers for support. As the weeks pass, the muscles of the neck, shoulders and upper back gradually strengthen. This growth is helped by everyday handling, time on the floor and a baby’s natural drive to lift and look around.
Developing head control is important because it supports every other motor milestone. Babies need to lift their head during tummy time to push up on their arms. They need upper body strength to roll. When sitting begins, head stability keeps them upright. Even early crawling relies on good head and neck strength.
Typical timeline for holding up the head
All babies develop differently, but most follow a pattern that looks something like this.
Newborn stage (0 to 2 months)
During the early weeks, babies have little or no independent head control. Their neck muscles are still developing, so their head needs full support when you lift, carry or cuddle them. When placed briefly on their tummy, some newborns may lift their head for a moment, but this is usually brief and wobbly.
You may also notice typical newborn reflexes during this time, such as the startle reflex, which can make the head jerk back suddenly.
Early development (2 to 3 months)
At this stage, many babies begin showing the first real signs of head control. When placed on their tummy during supervised tummy time, they may lift their head for a few seconds at a time. Some hold their head at a 45 degree angle and look around for short moments.
This is a key strengthening phase. Babies begin to activate their upper back muscles, and their head becomes less floppy when carried upright. You may notice they can hold their head more steadily against your shoulder.
Stronger head control (3 to 4 months)
Most babies gain much better head control by this age. They can usually lift their head higher and for longer periods during tummy time, often pushing up on their forearms. When supported in a seated position, their head is noticeably steadier and less likely to drop forward.
By around 4 months, many babies achieve fairly reliable head stability, although some variation is normal. Some babies may reach this point closer to 5 months, especially if they were born early.
How to support your baby’s head control
You do not need special equipment. Simple, everyday activities help the most.
- Offer regular tummy time from birth, starting with very short sessions and building up gradually
- Hold your baby upright against your chest to let them practise lifting their head
- Place interesting objects or faces in front of them during tummy time to encourage lifting
- Give your baby time on the floor each day, avoiding long stretches in seats or car seats
- Use supported sitting positions where your hands provide gentle stability
- Move toys slightly from side to side to encourage turning and neck movement
- Keep play sessions short, frequent and responsive to your baby’s cues
The goal is always gentle practice, not forced effort. Babies strengthen best when they feel safe and supported.
When to seek advice
Most babies follow their own steady rhythm, but a few signs are worth checking with your health visitor or GP.
- Little or no head lifting during tummy time by around 3 months
- Very floppy head control past 4 months
- Strong preference for turning the head to only one side
- A flat spot developing on one side of the head
- Stiffness, rigidity or unusual muscle tone
- A premature baby who is progressing significantly more slowly, even when using corrected age
Early support can make a big difference, especially if muscle tightness or positional preference is affecting development.
Conclusion
Head control develops gradually, and babies strengthen at their own pace. With tummy time, gentle upright holding and everyday movement, your baby will naturally build the muscles they need for all the milestones that follow. If you ever feel unsure or notice something unusual, your health visitor or GP can guide you. A calm, responsive approach helps your baby feel confident as they practise this important skill.
FAQs around baby head control
Most babies have steady head control by around 4 months. Some may take a little longer. Continue offering support until your baby can reliably hold their head upright without wobbling.
Some babies can lift their head briefly at this age, especially during tummy time, but it is normal for it to still be wobbly.
Short, frequent tummy time, upright cuddles, floor play and gentle supported sitting are all helpful.
Some variation is expected. If you are unsure or if your baby shows very floppy or stiff movements, check with a health professional.
Start with a few minutes at a time from birth and build up gradually. A general aim is around 20 to 30 minutes total per day by 3 months, spread across small sessions.
