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When do babies hold their head up?

The CDC's milestone checklist lists “Holds head up when on tummy” by 2 months, and “Holds head steady without support when you are holding him” by 4 months. Most babies (75% or more) do these by those ages, and many sooner. The CDC's tips include tummy time while your baby is awake. If you're worried, talk with your pediatrician.

Checked October 29, 2026.

What the CDC's checklists say

Milestones from the CDC's “Learn the Signs. Act Early.” checklists, word for word
ByThe CDC's milestoneMonth page
2 monthsHolds head up when on tummyYour baby at 2 months
4 monthsHolds head steady without support when you are holding himYour baby at 4 months

Each row is from the CDC's checklist for that age (2 months, 4 months), checked October 29, 2026.

What “by 2 months” means

Developmental milestones are things most children (75% or more) can do by a certain age. The CDC puts each milestone at the age by which at least 75% of children would be expected to do it, so that even one missing milestone leads to a conversation with the doctor instead of “wait and see”. So “by 2 months” isn't an average. Many children do it sooner, and the checklists don't list everything a child learns.

What it can look like

Lifting the head for a moment during tummy time, then holding it steady while you carry your baby upright.

What helps

  • Tummy time on your chest: lie back and let your baby lift their head to see your face. Only while they're awake and you're watching.
  • Floor time on a blanket with your face or a toy at eye level in front of them.
  • Carry your baby upright against your shoulder sometimes, with your hand ready behind their head.

Talk to your pediatrician if…

Your baby isn't doing this by 2 months, the age on the CDC's list, has lost a skill they once had, or you're worried for any reason.

You know your child best. Don't wait. If your child is not meeting one or more milestones, has lost skills he or she once had, or you have other concerns, act early. Talk with your child's doctor, share your concerns, and ask about developmental screening.

If you or the doctor are still concerned, the CDC says to ask for a referral to a specialist, and to call your state's early intervention program (find the number on the CDC's list). You do not need to wait for a doctor's referral or a medical diagnosis to make this call. If your child is younger than 3 years old, contact your local early intervention system.

More from the CDC: Concerned about your child's development? If your child seems unwell, call your pediatrician, or 911 in an emergency.

Sources