Tummy Time Guide

Tummy time is when you place your baby on their stomach while they're awake. It's one of the most important activities for your baby's development.

What Is Tummy Time?

Tummy time is when your baby spends time on their belly while awake and supervised. It's a simple activity that builds the foundation for all future motor skills.

Why Is Tummy Time Important?

Physical Development

• Neck muscles: Strengthens muscles for head control
• Shoulder and arm strength: Builds upper body muscles
• Core muscles: Develops trunk stability
• Motor milestones: Prepares for rolling, crawling, and sitting

Head Shape

• Prevents flat head: Reduces pressure on the back of the skull
• Reduces plagiocephaly risk: Especially important since babies sleep on their backs
• Helps maintain a round head shape

Sensory Development

• New perspective: Different view of the world
• Tactile input: Feeling different textures
• Spatial awareness: Learning how their body moves

When to Start

• Start from day one (newborn)
• Begin as soon as you come home from the hospital
• Start with just 1-2 minutes at a time
• Do it multiple times throughout the day

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends starting tummy time from the first day home from the hospital.

Age-by-Age Guide

0-1 Month

• Duration: 1-2 minutes, 2-3 times per day
• Position: On parent's chest (best for newborns)
• Chest-to-chest is easier than floor
• Wait 30 minutes after feeding

1-2 Months

• Duration: 3-5 minutes, 3-4 times per day
• Position: Chest + floor time
• Use a soft mat on the floor
• Baby starts lifting head briefly

3-4 Months

• Duration: 10-20 minutes per session, 30+ minutes total daily
• Goal: Lifting head 45 degrees
• Starting to push up on forearms
• Use toys to encourage reaching

5-6 Months

• Duration: 1+ hour total daily
• Goal: Lifting head 90 degrees
• Reaching for toys while on tummy
• Ready to start rolling

Tummy Time Positions

Basic Floor Position

• Place baby on a firm, flat surface with a mat
• Position baby on their belly
• Arms should be in front of chest
• Make sure face isn't pressed into the mat

Chest-to-Chest (Tummy-to-Tummy)

• Parent lies reclined (semi-upright)
• Place baby on your chest, facing you
• Make eye contact and talk to baby
• Best for newborns and babies who hate floor time

Lap Position

• Place baby across your lap on their tummy
• Gently rub or pat their back
• Easier transition than going straight to floor

Towel Roll Support

• Roll a small towel and place it under baby's chest
• Elevates upper body slightly
• Makes head lifting easier
• Great for babies who struggle or fuss

What If Baby Hates Tummy Time?

Why Babies Dislike It

• It's hard work: Muscles are still weak
• Unfamiliar position: Different from being on their back
• Bad timing: Hungry, tired, or overstimulated
• Right after feeding: Uncomfortable tummy

Tips to Help

• Keep it short: Even 1 minute counts!
• Start on your chest: More comforting than floor
• Use toys: Place interesting toys within reach
• Try a mirror: Babies love looking at faces
• Sing and talk: Your voice is soothing
• Get on their level: Lie down facing them
• Include siblings or pets: Entertainment helps!
• Stop if crying: Try again later

Tummy Time Activities

• Mirrors: Place a baby-safe mirror in front of them
• High-contrast books: Black and white patterns for newborns
• Rattles: Shake to encourage head turning
• Tummy time mats: Mats with built-in toys and textures
• Your face: Get down at eye level and interact
• Singing: Nursery rhymes make it fun

Safety Tips

• Always supervise: Never leave baby alone during tummy time
• Awake only: If baby falls asleep, turn them on their back
• Wait after feeding: 20-30 minutes to prevent spit-up
• Firm surface: Avoid soft bedding (suffocation risk)
• Never force it: Stop if baby is upset and try later
• Clear the area: Remove pillows, blankets, and loose items

What If You Skip Tummy Time?

• Delayed head control: Neck strength develops more slowly
• Flat head risk: Higher chance of plagiocephaly
• Motor delays: Rolling, crawling, and sitting may be delayed
• Daily practice, even briefly, makes a big difference

Final Thoughts

Tummy time is the foundation for your baby's physical development. Even if your baby fusses at first, consistency pays off.

Make it part of your daily routine, keep it fun and playful, and you'll see your baby grow stronger every day!