Home / Glossary Tummy Time By Motherly Editors February 26, 2024 Rectangle Inside this article DefinitionKey TakeawaysImportanceExplanationExamples of Tummy TimeTummy Time FAQWhat is tummy time?When should I start tummy time with my baby?How often should I do tummy time with my baby?What are the benefits of tummy time?What if my baby doesn't like tummy time?Can I do tummy time on my chest?Related Parenting TermsSources for More Information Table of Contents Toggle DefinitionKey TakeawaysImportanceExplanationExamples of Tummy TimeTummy Time FAQWhat is tummy time?When should I start tummy time with my baby?How often should I do tummy time with my baby?What are the benefits of tummy time?What if my baby doesn't like tummy time?Can I do tummy time on my chest?Related Parenting TermsSources for More Information Definition Tummy time is a supervised activity for infants, where they are placed on their stomachs while awake and alert. This practice helps babies develop strong neck, shoulder, and core muscles, and promotes motor skills such as rolling over, crawling, and sitting up. It also helps prevent flat spots from forming on the back of the baby’s head due to extended time spent on their back. Key Takeaways Tummy Time is a crucial activity for infants that helps them strengthen their neck, shoulder, and upper body muscles, preparing them for important developmental milestones such as rolling over, crawling, and sitting up. It is essential to start Tummy Time when a baby is a newborn by placing them on their stomach for a few minutes each day, gradually increasing the duration as they grow and become more comfortable with the activity. Parents can make Tummy Time more engaging and enjoyable for their baby by providing various toys and colorful objects within reach, interacting with them from the front, and encouraging them to lift their head and move their arms and legs. Importance Tummy time is an essential aspect of a child’s early development, as it helps to strengthen their neck, shoulder, and back muscles, paving the way for crucial motor skills such as crawling, rolling over, and eventually walking. By placing the infant on their stomach for short intervals during their awake and alert periods, parents encourage the baby to naturally lift their head and move their limbs. This counteracts any potential flattening of the head or plagiocephaly, which can result from excessive time spent lying on their back. Additionally, tummy time provides an opportunity for the infant to develop new perspectives and explore their surroundings, thereby stimulating their cognitive and sensory development. Explanation Tummy Time is a crucial aspect of a child’s early development, specifically designed to encourage physical milestones and muscle strength. It is the dedicated period during the day where infants are placed on their stomachs while awake and supervised, without any other equipment or objects that could impede their natural movement. This valuable activity promotes the growth of essential motor skills, such as lifting the head and neck, rolling over, crawling, and eventually sitting up and walking. As tummy time is practiced consistently, infants gradually develop better control of their body and an increased awareness of their surroundings, as well as acquiring the foundational skills necessary for their ongoing physical and cognitive development. Moreover, tummy time also serves a vital role in preventing flat head syndrome (positional plagiocephaly) – a prevalent condition among infants that results from prolonged periods spent lying on the back. By providing a regular change of position and engaging a variation of muscles, tummy time helps to maintain adequate shaping and development of the infant’s skull. Parents are encouraged to introduce this practice soon after the child’s birth and incrementally increase its duration, keeping in mind the importance of supervision and a comfortable environment for the baby. As infants become more accustomed to tummy time, they will experience marked improvements in their physical abilities and overall well-being. Examples of Tummy Time Newborn Playtime: After bringing a baby home from the hospital, a mother places her 2-week-old infant on their tummy on a clean and comfortable surface, such as a soft blanket or a play mat. The mother then interacts with her baby by talking, singing, or offering toys, encouraging the infant to lift their head and strengthen neck muscles during their first tummy time experience. Assisted Tummy Time: A father helps his 3-month-old baby with tummy time by placing the infant’s chest and arms on a rolled-up towel or a small, firm pillow. This added support allows the baby to focus on moving their head and neck, improving muscle control and strength. The father stays close, making eye contact and providing encouragement with entertaining toys or hand movements. Extending Tummy Time: At 6 months old, a baby participates in tummy time with the help of their babysitter, who gradually increases the session duration up to 15 to 20 minutes. The baby pushes their hands against the floor, working on head control and upper body strength, which could eventually lead to crawling. The babysitter stays engaged by offering toys and verbal encouragement, making tummy time an enjoyable and productive experience. Tummy Time FAQ What is tummy time? Tummy time is a supervised activity where you place your baby on their stomach while they’re awake. It’s an essential part of an infant’s development and helps build strength in their neck, shoulders, and upper body muscles. When should I start tummy time with my baby? You can begin tummy time as soon as you bring your baby home from the hospital. Start with a few minutes each day, gradually increasing the duration as your baby gets stronger and more comfortable with the activity. How often should I do tummy time with my baby? Tummy time should be done multiple times a day, ideally after each nap or diaper change. Aim for at least 20 minutes of tummy time per day, broken up into smaller sessions to allow your baby to gradually build strength and become more comfortable. What are the benefits of tummy time? Tummy time has numerous benefits for your baby, including promoting motor skills development, preventing flat head syndrome (plagiocephaly), strengthening their neck and shoulder muscles, and helping them learn to roll over, crawl, and eventually walk. What if my baby doesn’t like tummy time? It’s common for babies to be fussy during tummy time initially. You can make it more enjoyable by getting down on their level, using toys or a mirror for distraction, and gently guiding them through the process. Remember to be patient and increase the duration gradually as your baby becomes more comfortable. Can I do tummy time on my chest? Yes! Tummy time on your chest, also known as skin-to-skin tummy time, is a great bonding activity and can be more comfortable for your baby. Just make sure to supervise your baby at all times and maintain a safe environment while they’re on your chest. Related Parenting Terms Physical Development Head Control Motor Skills Preventing Flat Head Syndrome Supervised Playtime Sources for More Information Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) Parents Magazine What To Expect Inside this article DefinitionKey TakeawaysImportanceExplanationExamples of Tummy TimeTummy Time FAQWhat is tummy time?When should I start tummy time with my baby?How often should I do tummy time with my baby?What are the benefits of tummy time?What if my baby doesn't like tummy time?Can I do tummy time on my chest?Related Parenting TermsSources for More Information More terms German measles April 2, 2024 Natural birth April 2, 2024 Sensory Processing Deficits April 2, 2024 Outdoor Education February 26, 2024 Obstructed labor April 3, 2024