when does anterior fontanelle close

The anterior fontanelle (the soft spot on top of a baby’s head) usually closes sometime between about 7 and 19 months of age, with many sources grouping the typical range around 9–18 months.

Key timeline

• Most babies’ anterior fontanelle closes in the second half of the first year to the middle of the second year (roughly 7–19 months).

• Many pediatric and exam-oriented references quote about 12–18 months as the usual closure window.

• Some public health resources note that normal closure can be as early as 4 months or as late as about 24–26 months and still be within a broad normal range if the child is otherwise developing well.

Practical takeaway for parents

• If the soft spot seems to be closing very early (in the first few months) or
• If it is still wide open well after 18–24 months ,

it’s worth having your child examined, since unusually early or delayed closure can be associated with conditions like craniosynostosis, hypothyroidism, certain genetic syndromes, or increased brain pressure.

Always check with your pediatrician if you are worried; they can assess head shape, growth charts, and development and decide if any imaging or blood tests are needed.

SEO-style meta description:
Wondering when does anterior fontanelle close? In most babies, the anterior fontanelle closes between about 7 and 19 months of age, with many closing around 9–18 months.