Tummy time

Tummy Time

A baby enjoying tummy time.

Tummy time refers to the practice of placing infants on their stomachs while they are awake and supervised. This activity is crucial for a baby's development as it helps strengthen the neck, shoulder, and arm muscles, and prevents the development of flat spots on the back of the head, a condition known as positional plagiocephaly.

Importance

Tummy time is essential for infants because it promotes motor skills and physical development. When babies are placed on their stomachs, they are encouraged to lift their heads and push up with their arms, which helps develop the muscles needed for rolling over, sitting, and crawling. Additionally, tummy time can help prevent the flattening of the skull, which can occur if a baby spends too much time lying on their back.

Recommendations

Pediatricians recommend starting tummy time as early as the first day home from the hospital. Initially, sessions can be as short as 3 to 5 minutes, two to three times a day, gradually increasing as the baby grows stronger and more comfortable. It is important to always supervise the baby during tummy time to ensure their safety.

Techniques

There are several ways to make tummy time enjoyable and beneficial for infants:

• Use a blanket or play mat: Place the baby on a soft surface to encourage movement.
• Engage with toys: Place toys within the baby's reach to stimulate interest and encourage reaching and grasping.
• Get down on the floor: Interact with the baby at their level to provide comfort and encouragement.
• Use a rolled towel: Place a rolled towel under the baby's chest to provide support and make it easier for them to lift their head.

Challenges

Some babies may initially resist tummy time, showing signs of discomfort or frustration. It is important to be patient and gradually increase the duration of tummy time as the baby becomes more accustomed to the position. Parents can try different techniques to make the experience more enjoyable, such as playing music or using a mirror to capture the baby's attention.

Related pages

• Infant development
• Positional plagiocephaly
• Motor skills