Most babies start to hold their heads up in the first few months, with really steady, “no-wobble” control usually in place by about 5–6 months.

Typical timeline (quick view)

  • Around 0–2 months: Baby may briefly lift or turn their head during tummy time, especially by the end of the second month.
  • Around 3–4 months: Most babies can lift their head 45–90 degrees on their tummy and keep it steadier when you hold them upright.
  • Around 4–5 months: Head control becomes much stronger and less wobbly; many babies can hold their head up well when supported sitting.
  • Around 5–6 months: The majority have full head control and can hold their head up steadily in most positions.

Every baby is different, so some will get there a little earlier or later and still be perfectly normal.

How this shows up day to day

You’ll usually notice:

  1. On their tummy
    • First, little “head lifts” for a second or two.
 * Then, lifting higher (up to 90 degrees) and looking around between 3–4 months.
  1. When you hold them
    • Early on, you fully support head and neck.
    • By around 3–4 months, they help support their own head when you hold them upright.
 * By about 5–6 months, you usually no longer need extra head support in your arms or a carrier.

Tummy time is one of the best ways to build the neck and shoulder strength they need for head control.

What parents in forums say

On parenting forums, you’ll see a wide range of “my baby did it at…” stories: some report pretty steady heads closer to 3 months, others not until 5 months or so, and both can be normal if baby is otherwise healthy and progressing.

A common theme in those discussions is that babies who get regular tummy time and floor play often seem to gain confidence with head control a bit earlier, but there are plenty of exceptions.

Parents often reassure each other that head control is a process, not a single “on/off” day, and to look for gradual improvement rather than one big milestone moment.

When to check with a doctor

It’s always okay to ask your pediatrician if you’re unsure, but many experts suggest touching base if:

  1. By around 2 months
    • Baby never lifts or tries to lift their head at all during tummy time.
  1. By around 4 months
    • Their head is still extremely floppy when you hold them upright, with very little control.
  1. Any time
    • You notice weakness on one side, very stiff or very floppy muscles, or you just have a gut feeling something is off.

A quick developmental check can either reassure you or get you early support like physical or occupational therapy if needed.

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  • Main phrase to weave in naturally: “when can babies hold their own head” in the title, intro, and one subheading.
  • Other friendly phrases: “head control milestone,” “baby head support,” “tummy time and neck strength.”
  • A simple meta description idea:
    • “Wondering when babies can hold their own head? Learn the typical age range, what real parents see, and when to talk to your pediatrician.”

Bottom note (as requested):
Information gathered from public forums or data available on the internet and portrayed here.