Cranial development is closely related to brain development. During gestation, the skull is composed of several bones separated by sutures that allow the head to deform slightly during delivery. These bones gradually fuse together to form a solid structure, but still allow some elasticity to accommodate the growth of the brain.
During the first few months of life, the infant's brain continues to grow and connect through neurons. This growth is supported by adequate nutrition and environmental stimulation. The infant also begins to develop neck muscles and the ability to lift the head and stand.
Head circumference is measured regularly to monitor the infant's cranial development. If the skull is growing too fast or too slow, it may be a sign of underlying health problems, such as malnutrition, hydrocephalus or developmental delay.
Excessive skull growth can also cause physical problems such as increased pressure on the brain, which can lead to developmental problems, mental delays and seizures.
Cranial development in infants is a complex process and dependent on many factors. Regular monitoring of head circumference is essential to monitor skull growth and detect any underlying health problems. Adequate nutrition, environmental stimulation and careful growth monitoring are all important measures to support healthy cranial development in infants.
Definition and Meaning
Infant cranial development refers to the evolution of the size and shape of a baby's skull over time. It is a complex process that is closely related to brain development and is influenced by various factors such as age, nutrition and environment. Regular monitoring of head circumference is important to monitor skull growth and detect any underlying health problems.
Evolution of head circumference in babies
The following tables show the average head circumference data in cm for babies at different ages:
Age / Head circumference in cm (range of variation)
- Birth 35 cm (32-37 cm)
- 1 month 37 cm (34-40 cm)
- 3 months 40 cm (37-43 cm)
- 6 months 43 cm (40-46 cm)
- 9 months 45 cm (42-48 cm)
- 12 months 46 cm (43-49 cm)
- 18 months 48 cm (46-51 cm)
- 24 months 50 cm (48-53 cm)
Evolution of head circumference in children
In the years following birth, head circumference continues to change, but at a slower rate. The following tables show the average head circumference data in cm for children at different ages:
age / head circumference in cm
- 2 years 50 cm (48-53 cm)
- 3 years 51 cm
- 4 years 52 cm
- 6 years 53 cm
- 8 years 54 cm
- 10 years 56 cm
- 12 years 58 cm
In a nutshell
It is important to monitor your child's cranial development and to consult a pediatrician if you have any concerns. It is also important to note that, from the age of 12, the cranial perimeter does not change significantly.