The Importance of Tummy Time

With all the time babies spend face-up, playtime on their stomachs is important to their development.

“Tummy time” helps your infant strengthen shoulder and neck muscles, develop motor skills and prevent flat spots on the back of the head from laying face-up so much of the time. Read on for tips and tricks for tummy time—especially if your baby resists it!

How to Do Tummy Time

Tummy time should only be done while your infant is awake. Never put a baby down to sleep on his or her stomach, as this can significantly raise the risk for sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS).

Here’s how to help your little one put in some “tummy time” each day:

Spread a blanket on the floor and scatter a few bright and safe toys to stimulate interest. Lay your baby, stomach down, on the blanket. You can also prop up a plastic mirror for your little one to look at.
If your baby is alert and ready to play, try a few 3-5 minute sessions of tummy time each day. These will allow your little one to practice pushing up and learning to hold his or her head steady under your watchful eye.
If your baby falls asleep stomach down, turn him or her over to nap safely.

If Your Baby Doesn’t Like It ...

Tummy time can be hard and uncomfortable for babies who don’t yet have the upper body strength for it. Try these tricks if your baby is not a fan:

Lie down on your back and put your baby on your chest. She may find this more comfortable and secure, and this, too, can help strengthen neck and shoulder muscles. Plus, the two of you can enjoy close-up face-to-face time!
Try the football hold. Stand and hold your baby stomach down along your forearm with his head resting in the crook of your elbow. Support him in the crotch area with your free hand. You can raise your forearm up a bit at the elbow to prompt your baby’s head and neck to come up, as well.
Sit with your baby stomach-down on your lap. You can raise the leg directly under your little one’s chest to provide more support and a slight incline.
Place a rolled-up hand towel horizontally under your baby’s chest and underarms while she is lying on a clean rug or blanket. The towel will lift her chest off the floor and shift her weight to her lower body.

Alternate these different techniques to help strengthen your baby’s upper body until he or she masters tummy time on the floor. If your baby doesn’t like tummy time, start with short periods (3 minutes a few times a day). Then gradually increase the time.

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