Tummy time and physical development

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What is Tummy Time?

Tummy time is when you place your baby on their stomach while they’re awake and supervised. It’s an important exercise that helps strengthen your baby’s muscles, improve motor skills, and prevent flat spots on the back of their head (CDC, 2023).

Why is Tummy Time Important?

Tummy time is essential because:
✔ Strengthens Muscles – Helps develop neck, shoulder, arm, and core muscles (AAP, 2023).
✔ Prepares for Crawling – Builds strength needed for rolling over, sitting up, and crawling (NICHD, 2023).
✔ Prevents Flat Head Syndrome (Plagiocephaly) – Reduces pressure on the back of the skull (CDC, 2023).
✔ Improves Sensory Development – Encourages movement, coordination, and interaction with surroundings (AAP, 2023).
✔ Enhances Motor Skills – Helps babies develop balance and movement needed for future milestones (NICHD, 2023).

When Should You Start Tummy Time?

Experts recommend starting tummy time on the first day home from the hospital. Begin with short sessions of 1-2 minutes, 2-3 times a day, and gradually increase the duration as your baby becomes more comfortable (CDC, 2023).

How Much Tummy Time Does My Baby Need?

  • Newborn to 1 Month – 3-5 minutes, 2-3 times per day (AAP, 2023).
  • 1-2 Months – 10-15 minutes total per day (NICHD, 2023).
  • 2-3 Months – 30 minutes total per day (in small sessions) (CDC, 2023).

By 3 months, your baby should be getting at least 30 minutes of tummy time per day, broken into smaller sessions (AAP, 2023).

How to Do Tummy Time (Step-by-Step Guide)

1️⃣ Use a Safe Spot – Place baby on a firm, flat surface (like a play mat, blanket, or carpet) (AAP, 2023).
2️⃣ Try Chest-to-Chest – Lay back and place baby on your chest while you recline. This makes tummy time more comforting (CDC, 2023).
3️⃣ Use a Tummy Time Pillow – Place a small, rolled-up towel under baby’s chest for extra support (NICHD, 2023).
4️⃣ Make It Fun – Use toys, mirrors, and colorful objects to encourage baby to lift their head (AAP, 2023).
5️⃣ Get Down on Baby’s Level – Lie on the floor facing your baby to keep them engaged and happy (CDC, 2023).
6️⃣ Talk and Sing – Your voice will soothe and encourage your baby (NICHD, 2023).
7️⃣ Increase Time Gradually – If baby gets fussy, try again later and slowly build up tummy time sessions (AAP, 2023).

Signs of Progress: What to Expect by 3 Months

At 2-3 months, your baby should be able to:
✔ Lift their head 45-90 degrees while on their tummy (CDC, 2023).
✔ Push up with their arms for brief moments (NICHD, 2023).
✔ Turn their head side to side to look around (AAP, 2023).
✔ Smile and coo during tummy time (CDC, 2023).

Helpful Tummy Time Videos

Tummy time in English:


Tummy time in Spanish

Final Thoughts

Tummy time is one of the best ways to help your baby grow strong, develop motor skills, and get ready for their next big milestones like rolling over, sitting, and crawling (AAP, 2023). Make it fun, be patient, and enjoy this special bonding time with your little one! 💕

Sources: Medical and Parenting Experts

  1. American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP)
  2. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
  3. National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD)

Images used:

A Complete Guide To Tummy Time | BedTimez

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