As a new parent, you might have heard about tummy time and wondered why it's so important. Tummy time is a crucial part of your baby's development from birth. It helps with:
- Healthy development of the central nervous system and brain.
- Strengthening neck, back, and upper body muscles.
- Improving balance, coordination, stability, and postural skills.
- Developing flat hand positioning, which aids in precise finger and thumb movements.
- Learning to roll over.
- Enhancing visual development.
- Achieving crawling, a vital developmental milestone.
- Introducing Tummy Time
If your baby seems uncomfortable on their tummy, start slowly. Introduce tummy time two or three times a day for just a few minutes. Gradually, it will become a part of your baby's daily routine, helping them learn, play, and practice essential head control movements. Always ensure your baby is safe and attended during tummy time.
9 ways to make tummy time fun
Here are some tips to make tummy time enjoyable for both you and your baby:
1. Be PresentGet down on the floor with your baby. Talk, sing, or make funny sounds to encourage them to lift their head.
2. Use a Towel
Roll up a towel and place it under your baby’s chest with their arms extended forward. This support helps them lift their head and look around, strengthening neck muscles.
3. Practice Sit-Ups
Place your baby on their back and slowly pull them up to a sitting position, holding under their arms. Hold for a few seconds before easing them back down.
4. Engage with Toys
Place a safety mirror or favorite toy in front of your baby to encourage head lifting.
Shake a rattle to one side to prompt them to turn towards the sound.
Place interesting toys just out of reach to encourage creeping movements.
Use a ball within easy reach. When they touch it, it will roll away, prompting them to 'swim' on their tummy or lift up on their forearms.
5. Interactive Positions
Lie on your back with your baby on your tummy or chest, encouraging them to lift their head to see you.
Hold your baby tummy-down across one arm, letting their legs dangle. Rock gently.
Place your baby across your legs and pat their back, encouraging head lifting.
6. Changing Perspectives
Place your baby on your lap facing your knees, with your knees drawn up to give them a new view.
Sit on the floor next to your baby, who is on the edge of the bed, to interact and play.
7. Use a Ball
Place your baby tummy-down on an inflated beach or gym ball and rock gently.
Roll a ball over your baby’s back, legs, and arms to stimulate their skin and relieve tension.
8. Exercise and Massage
Exercise or massage your baby while they lie on their tummy.
9. Encouraging Crawling
When your baby can sit unaided, place an interesting toy in front of them. As they reach for it, they may end up on their tummy, making crawling movements.
Avoid Restraints
Avoid using recliners or restraining devices unless necessary. Your baby needs to move freely to coordinate their movements and develop properly.
The Path to Crawling
Crawling is a significant milestone in your baby’s physical and intellectual development. It activates various brain cells responsible for vision, sensory perception, and thinking. It also improves eye-teaming, crucial for learning to read. Spending a few minutes daily on tummy time can lead to noticeable developmental progress.
Monitor Development
Babies who spend most of their waking hours on their backs may experience delays in reaching developmental milestones. If you have concerns about your baby’s development, consult your GP.
With these tips and a bit of patience, tummy time will become a fun and beneficial part of your baby’s daily routine. Enjoy this special time with your little one as they grow and develop!
By Dr. Lin Day
2011 (Updated August 2021)
