Babies are precious, and their health is paramount. As a parent, you must ensure that your baby is supplied with every essential nutrient they need to grow and develop properly. One crucial aspect of your baby’s growth is tummy time. In this article, we will take a closer look at what tummy time is, its benefits, how to do it correctly, and some frequently asked questions.
The Benefits of Tummy Time
Placing your baby on their tummy for a particular period every day can enhance their physical, cognitive, and emotional development. Here are the benefits of tummy time to your baby:
- Boosts physical growth and development
- Bolsters cognitive development
- Helps prevent flat-head syndrome (Positional Plagiocephaly)
- Enhances neck, shoulder, back, and trunk muscles strength
- Aids in breathing and digestion
- Eases colic and constipation
- Encourages crawling, standing, and walking
- Fosters sensory integration
- Creates bonding and attachment with caregivers.
What Counts as Tummy Time?
Simply placing your baby on their stomach while they sleep does not count as tummy time. To have a successful tummy time routine, babies need to be awake and monitored to ensure their safety. Here are some tips to make tummy time enjoyable for your baby:
Start Early
Begin tummy time as early as possible, when your baby is about two to three weeks old. This early start helps your baby comprehend that being on their stomach is a typical position and establishes healthy development patterns from a young age.
Short & Sweet
Begin with a few minutes of tummy time two to three times a day and gradually increase the duration as your baby grows stronger. You may start with one session in the morning and another in the evening, and gradually increase to three 10 to 15 minutes sessions throughout the day.
Make it Fun
Engage your baby with toys, mirrors, and interesting shapes that fit their age around them during tummy time. Experiment with different toys, rattle sounds, and interesting visuals to distract your baby and make tummy time a fun time.
Monitor Closely
Since sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) is a concern when babies are put to sleep on their stomachs, it is essential to monitor your baby during tummy time. Get on the floor and get some face time with your baby, and when sitting, prop your baby up with a rolled-up towel or blanket for extra support.
Correct Tummy Time Positioning
It is crucial to position your baby correctly during tummy time to enable proper development and avoid suffocation or harm. Here are some helpful tips on how to position your baby correctly:
Pillow or Rolled Towel
You can put a rolled towel or pillow under your baby’s chest and shoulder for support. This can make tummy time more comfortable and safer for your baby. It also makes it easier for them to lift their head and practice rolling over.
Cuddling Time
You can position your baby close to your chest or belly to give them a sense of safety and warmth during tummy time. This will help in developing a sense of comfort during tummy time and foster bonding with you.
Cradle Position
Place your baby on their stomach with their chin elevated and hands tucked under their chest, resembling a baby bird in a nest. This position allows your baby to look up at you and encourages them to hold their head high.
Frequently Asked Questions on Tummy Time
Here are the most common questions on tummy time:
When Should I Start Tummy Time with My Baby?
You can start tummy time as soon as your baby is two to three weeks old.
How Long Should Tummy Time Last?
Start with a few minutes of tummy time two to three times a day and gradually increase the duration as your baby grows stronger. You may start with one session in the morning and another in the evening, and gradually increase it to three ten to fifteen minutes sessions throughout the day.
How Can I Make Tummy Time Fun for My Baby?
Engage your baby with toys, mirrors, and interesting shapes that fit their age around them during tummy time. Experiment with different toys, rattle sounds, and interesting visuals to distract your baby and make tummy time a fun time.
What if My Baby Hates Tummy Time?
If your baby appears to dislike tummy time, try shorter bursts or prop them up with support, such as a rolled towel or pillow. As your baby grows, make it more exciting with toys, games, and baby talk to keep them entertained and motivated during tummy time.
When Should I Speak to My Pediatrician About Tummy Time?
If your baby does not seem to progress in tummy time or has trouble breathing, swallowing or crying, inform your pediatrician. These symptoms may indicate other health problems that require medical attention.
Conclusion
Tummy time is an essential activity that supports healthy growth and development in babies. You can start tummy time with your baby as soon as they are two to three weeks old, and gradually increase the duration to three ten to fifteen minutes sessions throughout the day. As you keep track of the baby’s developmental milestones, stay in touch with your pediatrician to ensure they are meeting their developmental goals.
References:
- The American Academy of Pediatrics
- The Zero to Three Foundation
- The National Association for Infant Development and Educational Stimulation