In 2006 we introduced a new campaign to alert parents to the importance of always sleeping babies on the back while allowing them the opportunity to play on the front when awake.

Always sleep your baby on their back, but when they are awake allow them to spend time on their front or sitting up safely. This will encourage their healthy development.

When your baby is awake they should spend a lot of time in different positions, not always lying on the back. This will help their head control and healthy development. Try some of the games and different ways of carrying your baby explained below and you will find they can do more and more.

• If your baby always faces one side when in his cot, place a mobile or picture on the other side to encourage him to turn his head.

• Help her to play on her front. Use a firm support like a rolled-up towel.

• Make it fun for her to play on her front. Put her on the bed so it’s easier for you to look at each other.

• Try carrying her in a baby carrier or sling, so she can be upright, close to you and can see what’s going on.

• Allow him plenty of time sitting on your knee, or in a baby bouncer, reclining chair or high chair.

• Carry him in different positions. There are lots of fun ways to help him develop his muscles.

Always supervise your baby when they are playing on their front. Never let them fall asleep on their front.

When you are not travelling, find ways other than the car seat for your baby to sit and move freely.

It is normal for babies’ heads to become slightly flatter on one side. If they spend all their time on their backs this can become more noticeable (plagiocephaly). Remember that this is usually not serious and is purely cosmetic – it won’t cause health problems and it should correct itself on its own within a year. Special equipment isn’t necessary.

You can consult your health visitor or GP who will refer you to a paediatrician if there are still concerns, or to a paediatric physiotherapist for advice on improving posture and head control.