Tummy Time Guide: When to Start & How to Make It Fun
Tummy time is the practice of placing your baby on their stomach while they're awake and supervised. "Why does my baby need to be on their tummy?" you might wonder. Let's explore why tummy time matters and how to do it right.
Why Is Tummy Time Important?
To prevent Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS), babies should sleep on their backs (Back to Sleep). This has significantly reduced SIDS rates, but spending too much time on their back limits developmental stimulation.
Tummy time provides these benefits:
- Strengthens neck, shoulder, and back muscles: Foundation for head control, rolling over, and crawling
- Prevents flat head syndrome (plagiocephaly): Reduces pressure on one spot of the skull
- Promotes motor development: First step in gross motor skill development
- Enhances sensory development: New visual perspectives and tactile experiences
When to Start Tummy Time
You can start tummy time from day one! Begin as soon as you come home from the hospital.
- 0-1 month: 2-3 times daily, 1-2 minutes each
- 1-2 months: Aim for 10-15 minutes total per day
- 3-4 months: Work up to 20-30 minutes or more per day
- 4+ months: Target 40-60 minutes or more per day
You can spread these minutes throughout the day. No need to do it all at once.
Tummy Time Positions
1. Floor Tummy Time
- Place a mat or blanket on a flat, firm surface
- Lay baby on their tummy
- Position their arms forward to help them push up
- Get down at baby's eye level in front of them
2. Chest-to-Chest Tummy Time
- Recline at an angle or lie back
- Place baby tummy-down on your chest
- Great for newborns just starting out
- Combines skin-to-skin bonding with tummy time
3. Lap Tummy Time
- Place baby tummy-down across your lap
- Support their bottom with one hand
- Similar position to burping
What If Baby Hates Tummy Time?
Many babies don't like tummy time at first. Crying or not lasting long is completely normal. Don't give up - try these strategies:
Keep It Short and Frequent
- Can't last a minute? Even 30 seconds counts!
- Try 30 seconds during every diaper change
- Multiple short sessions add up throughout the day
Make It Fun
- Sing, talk, and make funny faces in front of baby
- Place a mirror in front of them (babies love seeing faces)
- Use colorful toys or rattles to capture attention
- Have siblings or pets play nearby
Choose the Right Time
- Avoid right after feeding (wait about 30 minutes)
- Do it when baby is alert and content
- Skip if baby is sleepy or hungry
- Start with chest-to-chest tummy time first
Use Helpful Tools
- Tummy time pillow/prop: Supports chest, making head lifting easier
- Rolled-up towel: Place under chest for support
- Tummy time mat: Mats with mirrors, pictures, and attached toys
Developmental Milestones by Age
| Age | What to Expect |
|---|---|
| 1 month | Briefly lifts head |
| 2 months | Lifts head at 45-degree angle |
| 3 months | Pushes up on forearms, lifts chest |
| 4 months | Props on elbows, looks side to side |
| 5-6 months | Pushes up on hands, reaches for toys |
Every baby develops at their own pace. These milestones are general guidelines, not strict timelines.
Safety Tips
- Only when awake: Never let baby sleep on their tummy
- Always supervise: Stay with baby the entire time
- Use a firm surface: Avoid soft surfaces like couches or beds
- Don't force it: If baby is very upset, take a break and try again later
When to See a Doctor
- No head lifting attempts by 3 months
- Head always turns to one side only (possible torticollis)
- Asymmetrical arm or leg movements
- Muscles seem too stiff or too floppy
Final Thoughts
Tummy time is a foundation for your baby's physical development. Even if they protest at first, consistency pays off. One day, you'll see them confidently lifting their head on their own.
Don't stress about it - think of tummy time as quality time with your baby. Get down on the floor at their eye level, smile, and enjoy these precious moments together.