Author: Rebecca Rudisill PT, DPT, Board Certified Pediatrician
What do you think of when you hear “Tummy time”? This short phrase is a source of anxiety for many new parents. Not only is it often a challenge to get a baby to enjoy tummy time, but recommendations and best practices can sometimes be unclear.
- How long should tummy time last?
- Where should you do tummy time?
- What to do if your baby hates tummy time?
- The list goes on.
But fear not, I’m happy to be your tummy time guide and answer these frequently asked questions.
What is tummy time?
Let’s start with the basics. Tummy time is intentionally placing your baby on their stomach while they are awake and supervised. You as the supervising adult should be awake, alert and physically present with your child at all times.
Why Encourage Tummy Time?
Participating in tummy time is an important tool that helps your baby in many aspects of development. Spending time on their tummy helps keep your baby’s head round, or helps it round if it has a flat spot. Leaning on their forearms helps develop shoulder strength, which helps your baby reach milestones like rolling and crawling in time. Over time, babies will develop head control and be able to look at you and follow a toy while on their tummies. Visual tracking during tummy time sets the stage for your child’s future hand-eye coordination. If your baby does not participate in tummy time, it will be much more difficult for him to achieve these milestones.
When should you do tummy time?
You can do tummy time at any point of the day. Just pick a time that’s convenient for you and your baby. Your baby may prefer to tummy time before eating or may be happier lying down after having a bottle. Either way it’s fine. The only caveat is that you have to choose a time when your baby is awake. If they fall asleep on their stomach, gently roll them onto their back and plan to resume tummy time once they’re done napping.
How long should tummy time last?
Newborns, who can start tummy time as soon as they come home from the hospital, should start with just a few minutes a few times a day. From there, infants should slowly build up over time until they are participating in 1 hour or more of tummy time per day, as recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics. Tummy time can also be broken up into small chunks spread throughout the day. A sixty minute abs session gives the same benefit as sixty one minutes. While this is an extreme example, it shows how tummy time can be tailored to your baby’s specific tolerance.
Where should my baby potty train?
Your baby can participate in tummy time on any safe and stable surface. This can include on the floor, on a play mat, on top of a Boppy pillow, and on a caregiver’s lap or chest. It is not recommended to place your baby on their tummy on adult mattresses or thick duvets/quilts as these surfaces are too soft. Creative accessories such as water mats or towel rolls can also be used. As always, base your decisions on what works best for your baby.
What is my role when my baby is in the womb?
Your role in tummy time is twofold – supervision and commitment. As mentioned earlier, you need to stay present and alert while your baby is on their tummy. But beyond that, tummy time can be a great opportunity to bond and play with your child. Get down on their level and make eye contact with them. Talk to them, play with them and engage with them. You will see them watching you and responding to your actions!
What should I do if my baby hates the tummy?
If your baby is unhappy during tummy time, try to make your sessions shorter and longer. Try singing a favorite song to your baby every time he’s on his tummy. Once the song is over, roll them onto their backs. If you repeat this pattern often, your baby will begin to understand that once the song is over, it’s tummy time. Elevating your baby’s head higher than his hips using a Boppy pillow, towel roll or pillow wedge can also make tummy time easier. This angled position reduces the effort required for the baby to raise its head against gravity. Distracting your baby with yourself or with interesting toys can also help make tummy time more enjoyable.
If you have specific concerns about your baby’s development or lack of tolerance for tummy time, please plusdra The Women’s Pediatric Treatment team In connection or at 225-924-8450.
