The fontanelle (soft spot) is the soft area on a newborn baby’s head where the skull bones haven’t fully fused. This area plays a crucial role in brain development during the first few years of life. However, because the fontanelle is soft and delicate, it’s vulnerable to external impacts. Therefore, covering the fontanelle is essential to protect the baby from potential risks.
Why do newborns need their fontanelles covered?
A newborn’s head is quite delicate and prone to heat loss. Covering the fontanelle helps keep the baby warm, especially premature babies or those born during the colder months. Covering the fontanelle shields the baby’s head, making them feel warmer and more comfortable, thus preventing weather-related illnesses like colds, fever, and general sickness.
The fontanelle plays a vital role in the baby’s brain development during the first years of life. However, because it’s soft and fragile, it’s easily injured by external impacts. Therefore, covering the fontanelle helps shield and protect it from potential risks, contributing to the overall development of the brain.
Covering the fontanelle not only protects the baby from external factors but also provides a sense of security and comfort. When wearing a baby hat, the baby feels protected and soothed, which helps them fall asleep more easily and sleep more soundly.
See also: What kind of blanket should I buy for a newborn? Tips for choosing a baby blanket?
How to cover a newborn’s fontanelle correctly?
A baby hat is an indispensable item for newborn care, helping to protect the baby’s soft fontanelle from external impacts. However, to use a baby hat effectively and safely, parents should keep the following points in mind:
Observe the baby’s body temperature: Before putting a hat on the baby, observe whether the baby is comfortable or cold. If the baby shows signs of sweating or perspiration, temporarily remove the hat to avoid overheating. Conversely, if the baby shows signs of shivering or has cold hands and feet, put a hat on them to keep them warm.
Use the baby hat flexibly: The baby hat should not be used continuously. Only put it on the baby when necessary, such as:
- The room temperature isn’t warm enough for the baby.
- The baby’s room doesn’t have a two-way air conditioner or heater.
- The baby has just finished bathing.
When the baby is warm or shows signs of discomfort, remove the hat immediately.
Choose the right hat: The baby hat should fit the baby’s head snugly, not too tight or too loose. Choose a hat made of soft, breathable material that won’t irritate the baby’s skin. Avoid using hats made of rough materials that could scratch the baby’s skin.
Combine with other warming methods: Besides using a baby hat, parents can combine other warming methods for the baby, such as:
- Giving the baby a warm bath.
- Dressing the baby in layers of newborn clothes.
- Increasing the room temperature with a heater or air conditioner.
- Never use charcoal to heat the room, as it can be dangerous for the baby.
Where to buy baby hats?
DailySavingz – a reputable place to buy baby hats in Vietnam, with over 150 stores nationwide and offering more than 10,000 products for mothers and babies. DailySavingz is a place where mothers can shop with peace of mind without worrying about quality.
Some baby hat models at DailySavingz that parents can refer to:
The above article provides information for parents on why newborns need their fontanelles covered. Parents should equip themselves with the necessary knowledge about how to cover the fontanelle, choose the right hat, and use it correctly to ensure the baby’s safety, comfort, and healthy development. Always care for and nurture your beloved baby in the most thoughtful way!
