When will the soft spots on my baby’s head close? What do I need to do to protect them?

It is normal to see your baby's pulse in the fontanelles. The posterior fontanelle is usually smaller and closes up by about 4 months of age. The anterior fontanelle is usually bigger, starts getting smaller around 6 months, and doesn't close up until 9-18 months of age (by 2 years at the latest). Fontanelle help skulls to be flexible in the birth process and consistent with the development of the skull when the baby gets older and this is one of the body parts on babies that need special care to avoid damage and affect development . The first months of life, especially when baby learn to crawl they are vulnerable in the head. Now, fontanelle act as “spacers” to protect the baby from the risk of brain injury. Sure they look fragile, but the good news is that they’re well protected by a sturdy membrane. It’s okay to touch them (gently of course). In fact, you won’t be able to avoid touching your baby’s soft spots as you go about your everyday routine, from lightly massaging the fontanels as you shampoo your baby’s hair to covering them with your hand as you steady her head.