#asktheexpert my baby is 10 months old.. her soft spot is still there s mall part is this something to worry about

A. It is completely normal for a 10-month-old baby to still have a soft spot (fontanel) on their head, especially if it's small. The fontanels are soft areas on a baby’s skull where the bones have not fully fused yet. There are typically two fontanels: one at the top of the head (the anterior fontanel) and one at the back (the posterior fontanel). When to Expect Closure: Posterior Fontanel: Usually closes by 2-3 months of age. Anterior Fontanel: Generally closes between 12-18 months, but it can close earlier or later in some babies, and this variation is usually not a cause for concern. What You Should Know: Soft Spot Size: The size of the anterior fontanel can vary, and a small, soft spot is often normal. No Worry Signs: If your baby is meeting developmental milestones (e.g., rolling over, sitting up, smiling, and playing), there's usually no reason to worry. When to Be Concerned: Delayed Closure: If the soft spot remains large well past 18 months or is showing signs of bulging or sinking, it could indicate a problem, such as fluid buildup or dehydration. Other Symptoms: If there are other concerning symptoms like developmental delays, irritability, or poor feeding, it's worth discussing with your pediatrician. If you have any concerns, it's always a good idea to consult your doctor for reassurance. They can evaluate your baby’s growth and development and check if everything is progressing normally.