Tummy Time: Why It’s a Big Deal for Your Little One!
Have you ever heard of tummy time? If you have a baby or know someone with one, you might have! Tummy time is when your baby spends time lying on their belly while they’re awake and supervised. It might not seem like a big deal, but it’s super essential for your baby’s growth and development!
What Is Tummy Time?
Tummy time is simple: place your baby on their belly while they’re awake and keep a close eye on them. This helps strengthen their neck, shoulders, and back muscles, allowing them to grow strong and achieve significant milestones, such as rolling over, sitting up, and crawling.
Why Is Tummy Time Important? Babies spend a lot of time on their backs when they sleep, which is great for safety! But if they don’t get enough time on their tummies while awake, their muscles might not develop as well.
Tummy time helps:
- Strengthen muscles – It builds the muscles needed for activities such as sitting, crawling, and walking.
- Prevent flat spots on the head – Babies’ heads are soft, and spending too much time on their backs can increase pressure on the back of the head, ultimately causing flattening.
- Improve motor skills – Tummy time gets babies ready for significant movements like rolling and reaching.
- Support visual development – Looking around from a new angle helps babies learn and explore!
How to Make Tummy Time Fun
Tummy time isn’t always a favorite at first, but don’t worry! There are ways to make it fun for your baby:
- Use toys – Place colorful, high-contrast, or noisy toys in front of them to encourage reaching and exploring their surroundings.
- Get on their level – Lie on the floor with your baby so they can see your face and hear your voice.
- Try different surfaces – A soft blanket, tummy time mat, or even your chest can make it more comfortable.
- Make it short but frequent – Start with a few minutes a couple of times a day and work up to longer sessions.
When Should You Start Tummy Time?
You can start tummy time as soon as your baby is born! Even newborns can spend a little time on their bellies each day. By around 3 to 4 months old, babies should aim for about an hour of tummy time spread throughout the day.
Need Help? Carolina Therapy Connection has you covered!
If your baby doesn’t enjoy tummy time or has trouble lifting their head, our pediatric physical therapy team is here to help! We can give you fun tips and exercises to make your little one’s tummy time easier and more enjoyable.
Tummy time is a small activity with enormous benefits! Give it a try, have fun, and watch your baby grow stronger every day!