Tummy Time

As a parent or caregiver, you may have heard about the importance of tummy time for a baby's development. But what is tummy time and why is it considered so important for little ones? Let's explore the benefits of tummy time, what toys can assist with this activity, and some tips and facts to make the most out of this essential practice.

What is tummy time?

Tummy time refers to the practice of placing your baby on their stomach while they are awake and supervised. This position helps strengthen your baby's neck, back, and shoulder muscles, which are essential for achieving developmental milestones like crawling and sitting up.

Benefits of tummy time

Research has shown that tummy time can help prevent flat spots on your baby's head, improve motor skills, and promote sensory development. It also gives your baby a different perspective of the world around them, helping them develop spatial awareness and visual skills.

Toys that can assist with tummy time

There are various toys and props that can make tummy time more engaging and enjoyable for your baby. Aim to choose toys that will encourage baby to reach out, grab and explore, strengthening their core muscles and motor skills at the same time. Soft, textured mats, soft balls and rattles, baby safe mirrors with padded frames, soft toys and baby activity books are all great options.

Soft Baby Safe Mirror

A soft, baby-safe mirror is a great way to keep your little one engaged during tummy time. Babies love looking at faces, and a mirror allows them to see their own reflection, which can be amusing for some babies. Mirrors, like the one pictured, can be layed flat on the floor, or propped-up in front of baby.

Soft Activity Toys

Soft age appropriate activity toys can help to encourage infants to reach out and explore. Choose toys with high contrast prints or bold colours for visual interest. Aim for small activity toys that are easy for little ones to grab and explore with one hand.

Pop-Up Toys

Age appropriate pop-up toys offer baby a  visual and tactile sensory input experience, while also encouraging dexterity skills as they attempt to activate the cause and effect pop-up experience.

Soft Activity Books

Choose soft activity books with  sensory elements such as crinkle sounds, squeakers and tactile touch and feel panels. Taking these types of books and lying them flat in front of baby is a great way to use them as early tummy time toys. As little ones become stronger and more comfortable with tummy time, they’ll be encouraged to reach out and grab these books to explore the interactive elements.

Tummy Time Tips

Here are some tips to help make tummy time a positive experience for both you and baby:

✔️ Start early. Research shows that babies who start regular tummy time early tend to have a better tolerance of the position.

✔️ Start with short sessions of tummy time, gradually increasing the duration as baby gets more comfortable.

✔️ For babies that do not tolerate tummy time, try using a rolled-up hand-towel or small cushion to support their chest and arms during tummy time.

✔️ Engage with baby during tummy time by talking, singing, or making eye contact to keep them motivated and happy.

✔️ Mix it up. Don't always do tummy time in the same spot, choose different rooms in the house for variety.  Grab a blanket and go outdoors for tummy time occasionally, or even head to a nearby park.

✔️ Consistency and starting early is the key to reaping the full benefits of this important developmental activity.

Tummy time should always be supervised, and if baby becomes fussy or tired, take a break and try again later. 🙂

Additional resources:

Kids Health Information : Tummy time for your baby

Tummy time for babies: in pictures | Raising Children Network

Tummy time for your baby