Here’s a tip: Tummy time is the secret to support developing muscles and other developmental milestones!
Tummy time is a fundamental activity recommended for infants around 4-5 months of age, laying the groundwork for overall development. While your little one is busy getting stronger and practicing their skills, you get some special time to connect.
What is tummy time?
Tummy time is the time your baby spends lying on their tummy while they are awake and supervised by an adult.1 Think of it as a workout for your little one. While your baby may not like it initially, it is essential to help them grow strong.
Tummy time helps strengthen key muscle groups, including the neck, shoulders, and head.2 These muscles are crucial for achieving important developmental milestones such as rolling, getting ready for accepting solid foods at 6 months, sitting, and crawling.3 It also encourages babies to practice movements that are foundational for their motor skill development.4
Why does tummy time matter?
Experts universally recommend that babies should always be placed on their backs to sleep.5 tummy time comes serves as a vital counterbalance to strengthen your baby’s muscles.6
Bonus benefit: Tummy time has also been suggested to support normal, comfortable digestion for the baby. While on their tummy, babies get to stretch their abdominal muscles which in turn can stimulate the bowel and help to pass gas.7
How to do tummy time?
Engaging in tummy time with your baby is a wonderful way to bond and support their development. This will help them build the strength needed for sliding on their bellies and eventually crawling. You can make tummy time engaging by lying down with your baby, placing toys within their reach, or simply interacting with them face-to-face.5
But What if my baby hates tummy time?
Some babies take a little longer to warm up to it and that’s okay! Start with just a minute or two and gradually build up. You can also try propping them up slightly with a small rolled-up towel under their chest for extra support. And remember, every bit of tummy time counts, even if it's just a few seconds here and there.
Pro Tip
Tip number 1
Schedule tummy time right after a diaper change or when your baby wakes up from a nap. These moments are perfect since your little one will be alert, active, and ready for some playful interactions!5
Let’s make tummy time a daily adventure!
Remember, every minute of tummy time contributes to your baby's physical development, fostering confidence and independence as they explore the world around them. So, roll out a soft mat, and let your little one enjoy their tummy time adventure!
References
- Hewitt L, Kerr E, Stanley RM, Okely AD. Tummy Time and Infant Health Outcomes: A Systematic Review. Pediatrics. 2020;145(6):e20192168. doi:10.1542/peds.2019-2168
- Russell DC, Kriel H, Physiotherapy M, Joubert G, Goosen Y, Soc M. Prone positioning and motor development in the first 6 weeks of life. South Afr J Occup Ther. 2009;39(1)
- Dudek-Shriber L, Zelazny S. The Effects of Prone Positioning on the Quality and Acquisition of Developmental Milestones in Four-Month-Old Infants. Pediatr Phys Ther. 2007;19(1):48-55. doi:10.1097/01.pep.0000234963.72945.b1
- Salls JS, Silverman LN, Gatty CM. The relationship of infant sleep and play positioning to motor milestone achievement. Am J Occup Ther Off Publ Am J Occup Ther Off Publ Am Occup Ther Assoc. 2002;56(5):577-580. doi:10.5014/ajot.56.5.577
- Back to Sleep, Tummy to Play. HealthyChildren.org. January 20, 2017. Accessed December 18, 2024. https://www.healthychildren.org/English/ages-stages/baby/sleep/Pages/back-to-sleep-tummy-to-play.aspx?_gl=1*1fp9efk*_ga*NDYwMTMxODQzLjE3MzQ1MDA1NDU.*_ga_FD9D3XZVQQ*MTczNDUwMDU0NC4xLjAuMTczNDUwMDU0NC4wLjAuMA..
- Plagiocephaly and brachycephaly (flat head syndrome). nhs.uk. October 19, 2017. Accessed December 18, 2024. https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/plagiocephaly-brachycephaly/
- Best Tips For Your Baby’s Stomach Health & Reflux | Nestlé Baby & me. Accessed January 8, 2025. https://www.nestlebaby.ca/3-tips-for-your-babys-happy-he
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