Tummy Time

Why do Tummy Time

As many babies are encouraged to sleep on their backs, giving baby set periods of time to be on their tummy has become a more important issue. Parents are concerned that their babies head has become flat at the back, or noticed that their baby has lost a lot of hair and has bald patches at the back of their head as a result from spending a lot of time on their backs. 

When to Start Tummy Time Play

Each baby is unique and each baby will have a differerent ability to hold their heads up for periods of time.  You may find that your baby doesn't develop neck, shoulder and torso muscle strength until they reach 3 or 4 months. As your baby’s neck and upper body control improves, you can gradually increase the amount of time spent on on their tummy.

For babies under 3/4 months old, you may find that your baby enjoys tummy time more if he/she is close to you. For example, you can try lying on your back with your baby on his/her tummy on your chest.  

For babies over 4 months old, you could try sitting on the floor with your legs out in front of you.  You may find it more comfortable to sit on a cusion, try to engage your tummy muscles and sit up tall, stretching out y our back.  You can begin by placing your baby on their tummy across your lap with a toy on the floor.

For babies over 6 months, your baby may be much happier to be on their tummy with some toys.