β why
Why do babies have a soft spot on their heads?
Human bodyPediatrics
Quick Answer
The soft spot is the fontanelle, where skull bones have not yet fully fused. It allows the brain and skull to grow during infancy.
The Full Story
A babyβs skull is made of several bones separated by flexible gaps called fontanelles. These openings make delivery through the birth canal easier and give the rapidly growing brain room to expand after birth. Over time, the bones gradually fuse as the child grows. The largest fontanelle usually closes during the first 12 to 18 months of life.
Key Facts
1.The soft spot is called a fontanelle
2.It helps the skull accommodate brain growth
3.The largest fontanelle often closes by about 12 to 18 months
YouTube Angle
Suggested video title for this topic:
"Babies are born with skull gaps so their brains can keep growing."