When your baby is prescribed a cranial helmet for plagiocephaly or other skull-shaping conditions, it can feel like an overwhelming adjustment. While the helmet plays a vital role in your baby’s development, you must still manage their sleep, playtime, feeding, and overall comfort. The good news? With the right approach, your baby can thrive while wearing their helmet.
Here are some tips parents have written or told us about things they learned while their baby was in cranial therapy. We compiled a list of almost everything you need to know about balancing baby care while ensuring they stay comfortable and happy.
Sleep: Ensuring Restful Nights with a Cranial Helmet
Many parents worry about how the helmet will affect their baby’s sleep. Since infants already struggle with frequent wakeups, adding a hard shell to their heads can seem like a recipe for disaster. However, with a few minor adjustments, your baby can sleep just as soundly as before.
- Tips for Better Sleep with a Cranial Helmet:
- Adjust Room Temperature – Helmets trap heat, so keep the nursery slightly cooler (around 68°F or 20°C) to prevent overheating.
- Choose Breathable Sleepwear – opt for lightweight, moisture-wicking fabrics to keep your baby comfortable.
- Practice Extra Cuddle Time Before Bed – Babies rely on skin-to-skin contact for emotional regulation. Incorporate more cuddle sessions before bedtime to soothe them.
- Use White Noise – The slight discomfort of a helmet can make babies fussier at night. A white noise machine can promote deeper sleep by blocking out minor disturbances.
- Stick to a Routine – Consistency is key. A predictable bedtime schedule helps signal to your baby that it’s time to wind down, helmet or no helmet.
Playtime: Encouraging Development While Wearing a Helmet
A baby’s playtime is crucial for motor skill development, but with a helmet, certain activities need slight modifications.
- Best Playtime Activities for Helmet-Wearing Babies:
- Tummy Time Adjustments – The added weight of the helmet can make tummy time more challenging. Try propping your baby on a nursing pillow or using a rolled-up towel under their arms to make it easier.
- Gentle Sensory Play – Incorporate soft textures like plush toys, silicone teethers, and crinkly fabrics to engage their senses without discomfort.
- Balance and Neck Strength Exercises – Since helmets can slightly shift a baby’s center of gravity, playtime activities that encourage head movement (like reaching for toys or turning towards sounds) help strengthen their neck and balance.
- Safe Exploration – Because helmets add a layer of protection, babies might be more daring with movements like rolling or attempting to crawl. Ensure your play space is padded and free from sharp edges.
Comfort:
Preventing Irritation and Overheating Helmets should not cause pain, but they can sometimes lead to irritation, heat rashes, or discomfort. Knowing how to prevent and address these issues will keep your baby happy.
Preventing Skin Irritation:
- Daily Cleaning Routine – Wipe the inside of the helmet with baby-safe wipes or mild soap and water to prevent sweat buildup.
- Give Helmet-Free Breaks – If permitted by your doctor, use supervised breaks to let your baby’s skin breathe.
- Check for Redness – Some minor marks are normal, but if they don’t fade after 30 minutes, consult your pediatrician.
- Keep Baby Cool – Use a fan, dress your baby in breathable clothes, and avoid direct sunlight for extended periods.
Feeding and Holding Your Baby with a Helmet
Feeding a baby with a cranial helmet might require some minor adjustments, especially for breastfeeding or bottle-feeding.
- Adjust Feeding Positions – Some traditional positions (like the cradle hold) might be uncomfortable. Try a football hold or a more upright feeding position for better support.
- Be Mindful of Extra Weight – Helmets add a bit of bulk, so holding your baby close may feel different at first. Experiment with different positions until you find what works.
- Burping Adjustments – If your baby usually rests their head on your shoulder to burp, the helmet might make it tricky. Try supporting their chest instead while keeping them upright.
Navigating Public Outings and Social Situations
It’s not uncommon for strangers to ask about your baby’s helmet, sometimes with unintentional insensitivity. Here are a few ways to handle these interactions:
- Educate with Confidence – A simple explanation like, “It helps correct head shape and they’ll only wear it for a few months” can clear up confusion.
- Prepare for Unwanted Comments – Some people may react with curiosity or even criticism. Remind yourself that you’re doing what’s best for your baby.
- Celebrate the Journey – Many parents personalize their baby’s helmet with stickers or fun designs to make the experience more positive.
The Emotional Side of the Journey for Parents
Parenting comes with a mix of emotions, and seeing your baby in a cranial helmet can bring feelings of guilt, worry, or frustration. Remember:
- You Are Not Alone – Thousands of babies wear cranial helmets every year, and the vast majority adjust quickly.
- Celebrate Progress – Taking monthly pictures can help you visually track the improvement in your baby’s head shape.
- Give Yourself Grace – Parenting is already challenging; this is just one part of your journey.
Caring for a baby with a cranial helmet requires some adjustments, but with the right strategies, it becomes second nature. Focus on keeping them comfortable, maintaining their development, and supporting their emotional needs. Before you know it, the helmet phase will be over, and you’ll be left with memories of your baby’s resilience and growth.
The Cranial Center of New Jersey is one of the first and finest cranial centers on the East Coast, specializing in early intervention cranial and helmet therapy. Cranial Center was the first to offer the STARband™ scanner and helmets in New Jersey and the third company in the world with 3-D technology. Owned and operated by Stuart Weiner, CPO, the Cranial Center is certified by the American Board of Certification in Orthotics, Prosthetics, and Pedorthics. Our facilities are conveniently located across New Jersey: Hackensack, Hazlet, and Morristown. Contact us for a complimentary consultation at 800 685 9116 or at info AT cranial center dot com.
