Are You Doing Tummy Time?
Are you doing tummy time?
It is a sure question that you will be asked during your little one’s wellness exams. Tummy time is one of your baby’s first exercises; it helps to build a nice strong core and prepares them for other developmental milestones such as, sitting up and crawling. It is also important for your baby’s visual and sensory development and helps to prevent positional torticollis and plagiocephaly. Tummy time can begin as early as the newborn period and should only be performed supervised while your baby is awake.
Many babies do not like tummy time at first, but it becomes more tolerable and even enjoyable as they begin to develop the muscles needed to lift their heads. So keep your eye on the prize!
How to Perform Tummy Time?
The ideal time to perform tummy time is after naps or following a diaper change. For newborns, place them belly down on mom or dad’s chest, you may also lay your baby across your lap. For older babies, place your baby on a clean playmat or blanket. Surround your baby with his or her favorite toys and let the magic begin! It also helps to get down on the floor with your baby, face to face. Babbling and playing with them during this time is a special time to bond with your baby. It is also entertaining and further encourages them to endure longer stents of the exercise. Remember, you should be awake and your baby should be supervised during all tummy time sessions.
How long should I do tummy time?
From newborn age, start with a few seconds or minutes at a time and build up to longer sessions (three to five minutes 2-3 times a day). Make it a goal for your baby to have at least 30 minutes of tummy time total per day by 3 months old.
Taking tummy time to the next level!
Try mirror play: place an unbreakable mirror in front of your baby during tummy time encouraging them to keep their heads up. Vary the position of the mirror to encourage them to look in different directions. The Sassy Tummy Time Floor Mirror is a hit!
Use enticing toys:
Floor rattles: encourage visual tracking while easily gaining your baby’s attention and keeping them entertained. Try this one.
Books with contrasting colors: again encourages visual tracking and keeping their heads up
Piano floor mats: A tummy time mat that makes a noise every time your baby kicks the piano key and encourages movement of the legs and feet.
Have siblings join in on the fun! Entertainment is key to keeping your baby engaged on the task at hand
Provide Support: if needed, place a nursing pillow or firm cushion under the chest and arms to provide support and make tummy time more tolerable. Try to wean your baby from these items over time. Again, it is our goal to encourage muscle development.
Tummy time prepares your baby for all of the exciting developmental milestones to come. So continue to cheer on and encourage your little ones!
