Have you recently been reminded to do plenty of tummy time by your baby’s pediatrician? Tummy time is an important activity that doctors recommend for infants to support their growth and development. However, many babies don’t really enjoy it when they’re first starting out.

The key is to encourage your baby to get used to tummy time because it is essential for their physical, sensory, and motor skill development. Let’s explore why tummy time matters and how to make it enjoyable for your baby.

Tummy Time Builds Key Physical Skills

When your baby is on their tummy, they instinctively try to lift their head and push up on their arms to explore their surroundings. These movements strengthen the muscles in their neck, back, core, and arms, which lays the groundwork for milestones like rolling over, sitting up, and crawling. It gives them the chance to exercise for the first time; and once they get the hang of it, they’ll be eager to try out their new skills!

Tummy time also helps prevent plagiocephaly (or flat head syndrome). Babies who spend too much time on their backs may develop flattened areas on their skulls since their bones are still soft. Regular tummy time relieves pressure on the back of their heads and promotes healthy skull development.

Tummy Time Supports Digestion

The gentle pressure tummy time places on your baby’s abdomen can aid digestion and encourage bowel movements. This can be especially helpful if your baby is constipated or gassy, as the position helps stimulate their intestines and can get things moving.

Tummy Time Prepares Babies for Crawling

Tummy time contributes to the development of proprioception (awareness of body position) and the vestibular sense (balance). These sensory skills are essential for crawling, walking, and other physical activities. By doing tummy time, your baby starts building the key sensory skills they need for effective movement, balance, and coordination.

How to Make Tummy Time Fun for Baby

If your baby resists tummy time, try these tips to make it more enjoyable:

1. Incorporate Bonding Time

When your baby is a newborn, you can do tummy time on your chest. This doubles as bonding time and allows them to hear your heartbeat and see your face as they look up at you.

2. Start Small

Begin with just 1-2 minutes of tummy time a few times a day. Gradually increase the duration as your baby gets older, aiming for 15-20 minutes at a time by 2-4 months. As your baby keeps getting stronger, you can keep extending the time. Ideally, your baby should be comfortable with an hour of tummy time by about 6 months.

3. Use a Support Pillow or Rolled-Up Towel

Place a small pillow or rolled towel under their chest to prop them up slightly and make it easier for them to look around. Make sure the support stays under their chest and doesn’t obstruct their face or throat.

4. Don’t Leave Baby Alone

Remember that babies should never be left face down alone. Make sure that you or a trusted adult are always right there with your baby during tummy time.

5. Make It Interactive

Place colorful toys, stuffed animals, or interesting objects just out of reach to encourage your baby to reach forward. This keeps them engaged and helps develop their arm and neck strength.

6. Join Them on the Floor

Get down on the floor with your baby during tummy time. Talk to them, encourage them to reach for toys, and model movements. Your presence can comfort them and make tummy time into bonding time.

Reach Out to First Steps for Expert Support

Tummy time might not be your baby’s favorite activity at first, but with patience and creativity, it can become a fun part of their routine. By encouraging tummy time, you’re helping your baby develop the strength and skills they need to explore their world confidently.

If you’re ever curious about whether your child is on track with their development, our team at First Steps Pediatric Therapy is here to help! Our experienced therapists specialize in speech, occupational, and physical therapy and can guide you in supporting your child’s growth.

Call us today at (720) 989-0179 to schedule an evaluation and help your child take their first steps toward a brighter future.