Understanding the importance of tummy time for your baby

What is tummy time?

Tummy time involves placing babies on their stomachs for short periods while they're awake. This practice strengthens their core, neck, shoulders, arms, and back muscles, preparing them for developmental milestones like rolling over, sitting up, and crawling.

Benefits of tummy time

Tummy time offers many benefits for a baby’s physical development like:

• Strengthens core muscles and upper body muscles
• Prevents plagiocephaly, flat spots on the back of the head
• Improves head control
• Prepares for milestones like rolling, sitting up, and crawling
• Are bonding moments between parent and baby

When can I do tummy time with my baby?

Tummy time can start right after birth, even if they are in the NICU or born prematurely. For newborns, aim for 2 to 3 sessions of tummy time per day, lasting about 3 to 5 minutes or until they show signs of fatigue. For older babies, gradually increase tummy time to 15 to 30 minutes daily to help them strengthen their muscles. Always pay attention to your baby's cues, and take breaks if they become fussy or frustrated. If your baby was born prematurely and/or is in the NICU, specialists can show you how to do tummy time safely with your baby while in the hospital.

You can stop tummy time sessions once your baby can easily roll over in both directions and can comfortably sit up on their own, usually around the 6-month mark.

How to do tummy time

Here is the step-by-step guide to tummy time with your baby:

1. Lay a clean play mat or flat blanket on the floor.
2. Place your baby gently on their belly with their arms out in front of them.
3. To encourage your baby to use their core muscles, lower yourself to their eye level and interact by talking, singing, playing peek-a-boo, or shaking a rattle or toy.
4. Begin with short sessions, just a few minutes at a time. When your baby shows signs of fatigue, it’s time to end tummy time.
5. Allow your baby to rest and try again later in the day.

How to engage your baby in tummy time

Tummy time can be exhausting and uncomfortable, especially in the early stages. Here are some strategies to make tummy time more manageable for you and your baby:

• Begin with very short sessions, even 1 to 2 minutes to start.
• Schedule tummy time when your baby is well-rested, fed, and they have a clean diaper.
• Try different tummy time positions on the floor, your lap, or your chest.
• To stimulate your baby's interest and movement, use various textures for support, such as cool hardwood floors, soft blankets, or textured play mats.
• Roll up a small, thin blanket or towel and place it under your baby’s chest and arms for added support.
• Provide gentle encouragement
• Put colorful or textured toys within reach
• Place a safe, unbreakable mirror in front of your baby to engage them during tummy time.
• Lie down next to your baby and explore board books together.
• Blow bubbles for your baby to watch, play peek-a-boo, sing songs, or use silly voices to keep them engaged.

Tummy time by age

Here’s a breakdown of tummy time based on your baby’s age and developmental stage:

Newborn

Your baby may tire quickly and struggle to keep their head up for extended periods of time. It's also normal for newborns to fall asleep during tummy time. If this happens, gently transfer them to a crib or bassinet, and place them on their back to sleep.

2 to 3 months

You may notice your baby holding their head up for longer periods and beginning to push up on their forearms.

4 to 6 months

During tummy time, your baby might start rocking or rolling over from tummy to back or back to tummy.

Tummy time after 6 months

During tummy time, your baby may use their arms to reach, pivot their body, and show signs of crawling.

Safety considerations for tummy time

Always supervise tummy time, even if your baby can lift their head. Avoid placing them on a soft surface like a bed, sofa, or pillow. If your baby falls asleep during tummy time, always reposition them on their back to sleep to prevent Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS).

When to call a doctor

Every baby is different and develops at their own pace. If you have any questions or concerns about tummy time or your baby's development, the Summer Health team offers personalized guidance and support tailored to your family's needs.