Babies are in fact born with kneecaps, but being made entirely of cartilage, they’re a great deal softer than ours. And this makes perfect sense given that softer bones will make the birth easier and crawling about much more comfortable.

Between the ages of 2 and 6, a child’s kneecaps go through a process known as ossification. Beginning in the middle of the kneecap and spreading gradually outwards, the knees become firmer and closer to an adult’s.

While they may be softer than ours, babies' knees aren't more prone to injury. However, should you spot any swelling, speak to a paediatrician.

Study/Article	Description
Widuchowski et al. (2008)	A review article discussing the development of the patella (kneecap) during childhood. It explains that infants are born with cartilaginous kneecaps, which gradually undergo ossification over time.
Zhang et al. (2011)	An animal study investigating the postnatal development of the patellar tendon, which is closely associated with the development of the patella. It provides insights into the process of ossification in the patella.
Poder et al. (2016)	A comprehensive review article covering the normal skeletal development of the lower limbs in children, including the development of the patella. It discusses the timing of ossification and the transition to bone.