Posted on by Denise Janowski

Tummy Time

Why is tummy time so important?

The importance of tummy time is to help with your baby’s development. It helps with developing gross and fine motor skills along with visual development and sensory feedback. Tummy time helps with strengthening the upper body, neck and core muscles. By strengthening these areas it will help babies hold up their head, rolling, reaching, crawling, sitting and eventually walking. Tummy time can also help with hand eye coordination and balance.

When can I start tummy time?

Tummy time can be started as a newborn as early as one week old. Encouraging lots of tummy time from a very young age will help with development. Try to keep tummy time a positive and comfortable experience with a no-cry outcome.

Suggestions for keeping baby safe during tummy time?

Always make sure tummy time is in a safe environment. Never leave a baby unattended. Throughout tummy time make sure to monitor the baby for changes in breathing, distress, pain or changes in face color. If this happens at the end of tummy time, assess and comfort the baby. Try again later. Tummy time is done on a solid surface, safe from animals, lower surface or floor to prevent risk of rolling off. It is not recommended to let a baby sleep in tummy time.

What if a baby doesn’t like tummy time?

This is more of a common occurrence than you would think. You can help your baby learn to like tummy time. Start off slow (1-2 minutes) and repeat several times a day. Then build up time and repetitions per day. Make tummy time a positive experience by interacting with them and letting them know they are ok and again make it a no-cry zone.

How can I improve tummy time?

Start with holding the baby at your chest in a sitting or standing position. Then when comfortable, move to a semi-reclined position while sitting. Progressing to lying flat on your back and with the baby lying on your chest.
Place the baby over your legs while you are in a sitting position. Make sure the baby’s head is supported.
Carry the baby with tummy down with head and chest supported.
On the floor or couch (safe environment) place a small folded towel under the chest area. This will help prop up the baby so not lying completely flat. Can also use some sort of wedge or boppy pillow. Just remember to be mindful of head support and posture if the baby cannot lift their head.
Make sure you interact with your baby by getting down to their level and making eye contact. This will help them feel more comfortable in this new position. Make tummy time play time. Talk, sing, be silly or use a toy to help keep their interest and will help improve the length of time spent in tummy time.