Tummy time is an important part of your baby's early development. It involves placing your infant on their stomach while they are awake and supervised. This activity helps babies strengthen their neck, shoulder, and arm muscles, which are crucial for developing motor skills and learning to move. It also plays a key role in preventing flat spots on the back of their head, a condition known as positional plagiocephaly.
What is tummy time?
Tummy time refers to the practice of laying your baby on their stomach while they are awake, usually on a flat surface like a play mat or blanket. It is a vital activity that helps babies build the muscles necessary for head control, rolling, crawling, and eventually walking. It also aids in the development of sensory and motor skills as babies push up, stretch, and look around.
When should I start tummy time with my baby?
You can begin tummy time as soon as your baby is born, though it is usually recommended to start when your newborn is about two to three days old. Initially, tummy time sessions should be short, only a few minutes, and increase in duration as your baby gets stronger. Be sure to always supervise your baby during tummy time to ensure their safety.
How often and for how long should tummy time be done?
Newborns can start with just 2-3 short tummy time sessions per day, lasting around 1-3 minutes each. As your baby grows and gets more accustomed to the activity, you can gradually increase the duration to 20 minutes or more a day. By the time your baby reaches 3-4 months, aim for tummy time at least 3-4 times a day, with each session lasting around 5-10 minutes.
What can I do if my baby dislikes tummy time?
It’s common for some babies to resist tummy time at first. Here are a few tips to help:
- Start slowly: Begin with short, gentle sessions, gradually increasing the time as your baby becomes more comfortable.
- Use a tummy time pillow: A tummy time pillow can help lift your baby’s chest slightly off the ground, making the experience less frustrating.
- Engage your baby: Use toys, bright colours, or even your face to capture their attention and make tummy time more enjoyable.
- Get down to their level: Lie down next to your baby to interact with them and offer reassurance.
- Try different surfaces: Experiment with tummy time on different surfaces like a soft blanket or a firmer mat to see which they prefer.
What safety precautions should I follow during tummy time?
To ensure your baby’s safety during tummy time, keep the following precautions in mind:
- Always supervise: Never leave your baby alone while they are on their tummy.
- Avoid tummy time after feeds: Wait at least 30 minutes after a feeding session before placing your baby on their tummy to avoid discomfort or spitting up.
- Use a flat, safe surface: A clean, firm surface like a play mat or blanket is ideal for tummy time.
- Be cautious on soft surfaces: Avoid doing tummy time on soft or uneven surfaces such as beds or couches where your baby might sink in or roll off.
Is it safe to do tummy time in a pram or buggy?
It is generally not recommended to do tummy time in a pram or buggy, as they are not designed for this purpose. The angle of the seat can make it difficult for your baby to lift their head and engage their muscles properly. Tummy time should always be done on a flat, safe surface where your baby can move freely and exercise their muscles.
How can I make tummy time more engaging for my baby?
To make tummy time enjoyable, consider these ideas:
- Use tummy time toys: Bright, colourful toys or mirrors can captivate your baby’s attention and encourage them to lift their head.
- Talk or sing to them: Your voice is comforting and can motivate your baby to look up and engage.
- Tummy time with you: Lie down next to your baby, making eye contact and offering gentle encouragement.
- Place objects within reach: Lay toys just out of reach to encourage your baby to stretch, strengthening their muscles.
What should I do if my baby falls asleep during tummy time?
If your baby falls asleep during tummy time, gently move them to their back on a safe, flat surface. Always place your baby on their back to sleep, as this helps reduce the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). If your baby regularly falls asleep during tummy time, try reducing the length of the session or adjusting the timing.
Does tummy time help with my baby’s development?
Yes, tummy time is critical for your baby’s overall development. It helps strengthen muscles in the neck, back, arms, and shoulders, which are essential for reaching developmental milestones like rolling over, sitting up, and crawling. Additionally, tummy time encourages sensory development, as babies explore the world from a different angle and become accustomed to different textures and positions.
What age is appropriate to increase tummy time duration?
As your baby becomes stronger, you can gradually extend tummy time. Around 2 to 3 months of age, your baby will be more able to lift their head and hold it steady, making it the right time to increase tummy time duration. By 4 months, aim for about 20 minutes of tummy time each day, spread across multiple sessions.
Are there specific toys that help with tummy time?
Yes, tummy time toys can make the experience more enjoyable and help encourage your baby to lift their head and move their arms. Some popular options include:
- Soft, colourful rattles
- Baby-safe mirrors
- Tummy time mats with textures and images
- Roly-poly toys that encourage reaching
- Interactive, music-playing toys
Can I do tummy time after feeding my baby?
It’s best to wait at least 20-30 minutes after feeding before placing your baby on their tummy. This allows time for digestion and helps prevent any discomfort or spitting up. Doing tummy time too soon after a feed may cause your baby to feel uneasy or distressed.
How does tummy time support motor skills development?
Tummy time is essential for building the muscles needed for motor skills. As babies lift their heads and push up with their arms, they are strengthening the muscles in their neck, back, and arms, which are needed for future movements like rolling, sitting, crawling, and walking. Tummy time also encourages hand-eye coordination as babies begin to reach for toys or their own hands.
Should I do tummy time on a mat or blanket?
Yes, tummy time should be done on a soft yet firm surface like a play mat or a blanket. Ensure the surface is flat and safe, free of any loose items that could pose a choking hazard. Avoid doing tummy time on soft surfaces like beds or sofas, as they can increase the risk of suffocation or rolling off.
Can tummy time cause any harm if done incorrectly?
When done properly, tummy time is safe and beneficial. However, there are risks if it is not done correctly. Never leave your baby unattended during tummy time, as they may roll or get into an unsafe position. Avoid tummy time on soft or uneven surfaces. If your baby seems to be in pain, uncomfortable, or excessively fussy during tummy time, consult your paediatrician to ensure they are developing normally.
How will I know when my baby is ready for a longer tummy time?
Your baby will show signs of increased strength and head control when they are ready for longer tummy time. Around 3-4 months, most babies can lift their head and chest higher, stay on their tummy for longer periods, and may even begin pushing up on their arms. If your baby seems content and curious during tummy time, it’s a sign they are ready for longer sessions.
Is tummy time necessary for babies who sleep on their tummy?
If your baby sleeps on their tummy, tummy time during the day is still necessary. Although babies who sleep on their tummy may develop some muscle strength, tummy time while they are awake is essential for overall motor development. Always follow safe sleep guidelines and place your baby on their back to sleep to reduce the risk of SIDS.
What are the signs that my baby is comfortable with tummy time?
Look for the following signs that your baby is becoming comfortable with tummy time:
- Holding their head up steadily
- Pushing up on their arms
- Looking around or making eye contact
- Smiling or cooing during the session
- Turning their head from side to side
These signs indicate that your baby is gaining strength and coordination, which is an important part of their developmental journey.
