Your child's head circumference

The head circumference gives an indication about how well your baby’s brain is growing.

The circumference is the measurement around the head in centimetres.

Your child’s head circumference may be measured:

  • around the time of birth
  • at the 6 week check with your GP
  • at the 3 month developmental assessment with your public health nurse

The measurement will be taken 3 times at the same appointment. We will use a disposable tape measure.

Your child's heath and developmental checks

Baby and toddler developmental milestones

Page last reviewed: 22 October 2022
Next review due: 22 October 2025