Tummy time helps babies meet developmental milestones. It is the practice of placing your child on her stomach to play when she is awake, and it’s one of the best ways to make sure she builds the muscles necessary to lift her head, sit up, and eventually crawl. Tummy time should take place on a clean floor or carpet, with your constant supervision.
Speak to your child’s pediatrician about what age is best for your child to begin tummy time. Start out slow, with him only being on his stomach for three or four minutes at a time, two or three times a day. As he gets older and begins to enjoy age appropriate toys, this time should increase. Most babies learn to enjoy time on their stomach somewhat quickly.
You can enjoy tummy time with your child too. Get down on the floor with her and either talk or sing, or model how to use a rattle or another toy. It doesn’t really matter what you do as long as you are interacting and bonding with your baby. Not only will this assist with muscle development, but this type of social interaction with you will help your child develop other relationships as she matures. Playtime is serious business for young children, and it lays the groundwork for future success. Adequate playtime (without screen time), helps them develop physically, emotionally, and socially.
Remember, tummy time helps babies meet developmental milestones, but it is only for supervised playtime, and a baby should never sleep on his or her stomach. If you have further questions, reach out to the medical professionals at your pediatrician’s office or at the hospital where you delivered.
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