How to Make Tummy Time Engaging: Tips for Parents
As a new mom, you want to do everything possible to help your baby grow strong and healthy. One simple but powerful activity you can start early is tummy time. While it might seem like just another task on your to-do list, tummy time plays a crucial role in your baby’s development.
But let’s be real—not all babies love tummy time at first! Some fuss, cry, or resist being placed on their belly. That’s completely normal. The good news? With the right approach, tummy time can become a fun, engaging, and rewarding experience for both you and your baby.
This guide will walk you through why tummy time matters, how to do it, how much your baby needs, and tips to make it enjoyable—all in a way that feels manageable for new moms like you.
What are the benefits of tummy time?
- Strengthens Muscles for Future Milestones
Tummy time builds the muscles in your baby’s neck, shoulders, arms, and back, which are essential for holding up their head, rolling over, sitting up, crawling, etc.
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Prevents Flat Head Syndrome or Plagiocephaly
Since babies spend a lot of time on their backs while sleeping, they can develop a flat spot on the back of their head. Tummy time gives their head a break from that pressure and helps their skull develop properly.
- Improves Coordination and Balance
As your baby lifts their head and pushes up with their arms, they develop better control over their movements. This helps with future motor skills like grabbing, reaching, and even walking.
- Boosts Sensory Development
Tummy time allows babies to experience new textures, movements, and visual perspectives, which enhances their sensory processing.
- Helps Prevent Delays in Motor Skills
Babies who get regular tummy time are more likely to reach developmental milestones on time, such as when babies start rolling over and sitting up independently.
How to do tummy time
Now that you know why tummy time is important, let’s go over how to do it correctly and make it comfortable for your baby.
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Choose the Right Time
The best time for tummy time is when your baby is awake, alert, and not too hungry or too full. After a nap or diaper change is a great opportunity for tummy time. Get older siblings involved, as if you have other children, they can help make tummy time exciting!
- Pick a Comfortable Surface
Lay a soft blanket or tummy time mat on a flat, firm surface like the floor. Avoid placing your baby on a bed or couch, as these surfaces are too soft and unsafe.
- Start Small and Build Up
For newborns, tummy time should last just a few minutes at a time. At the same time if your baby starts fussing, try again later rather than forcing it. You must also gradually increase tummy time sessions as they grow stronger.
- Use Different Positions
If your baby doesn’t like tummy time on the floor, try starting by introducing tummy time on your chest. You can also lay back slightly and place your baby on your chest so they can look at your face. Another idea would be to sit comfortably and rest your baby across your legs for tummy time on your lap. You can also try placing a small rolled towel or a nursing pillow under their chest for support. -
Make It Fun and Engaging
Tummy time should be playtime, not a chore! One idea to keep your baby entertained is using a baby-safe mirror. Babies love looking at faces, even their own! Try soft toys and rattles. Place them just out of reach to encourage movement. Sing, talk, or make funny faces—your voice and expressions can keep your baby engaged.
How much tummy time babies need by age
It’s important to introduce tummy time gradually and increase it as your baby grows stronger. For newborns (0-2 weeks), start with a few minutes per session, 2-3 times a day. By 1 month, aim for 5 minutes at a time, 3-4 times daily. At 2 months, aim for 10-15 minutes per session, totaling 30-60 minutes throughout the day. Between 3-4 months, your baby can handle 20-30 minutes of tummy time daily, broken into shorter sessions. By 5-6 months, they’ll be ready for 60-90 minutes spread out over the day. Remember, tummy time doesn’t need to be done all at once—short sessions throughout the day are most effective!
How to make time for tummy time
As a busy mom, it can be tricky to find time for everything. Here’s how you can incorporate tummy time into your daily routine without stress:
- After each diaper change: Just 2 minutes of tummy time after every change adds up!
- During playtime: Use tummy time as a chance to bond and play with your baby.
- Right after naps: When your baby is well-rested, they’ll be more willing to engage.
- Before bath time: tummy time before bath time is always a fun way to sneak in an extra session.
Tummy time supplies
Having the right tools can make tummy time more comfortable and engaging for your baby. Here are some helpful supplies:
- Tummy time mats: go for soft, colourful mats with different textures and patterns.
- Baby-safe mirrors: This can also encourage visual tracking and self-awareness.
- Soft plush toys & rattles: These can help you stimulate movement and interest.
- Nursing pillow or rolled towel: Helps provide extra support for younger babies.
- High-contrast cards or books: These can be great for capturing your baby’s attention.
Tummy time safety
Since your baby is still developing strength and coordination, it is important to create a safe and comfortable environment for them. Here are a few key safety tips to keep in mind:
- Since newborns and young babies have limited head control, they may struggle to reposition themselves if they get tired or uncomfortable.
- Avoid placing them on soft, squishy areas like beds, couches, or pillows, as these surfaces can cause them to sink in, making it harder for them to lift their head or move freely.
- Not all babies take to tummy time immediately, and some may resist it at first. If your baby becomes fussy or cranky, check if they are too tired, hungry, or uncomfortable.
- It is best to avoid tummy time immediately after feeding, as placing your baby on their stomach too soon can cause spit-up or discomfort. Wait at least 30 minutes to an hour, as this helps prevent reflux and ensures your baby enjoys tummy time without any discomfort.
By following these simple safety guidelines, you can ensure that tummy time remains a safe, enjoyable, and beneficial activity for your baby.
Conclusion
Tummy time is a crucial part of your baby’s development, and with a little creativity, it can be a fun and comfortable experience. Using supportive essentials like a maternity pillow can help your baby feel at ease while practising tummy time. A soft baby blanket adds warmth and familiarity, while a colourful baby toy keeps them engaged and curious.
At Laadlee, you can explore a variety of baby essentials designed to make these early moments more special and enjoyable for both you and your little one. We offer a selection of baby-friendly products that help turn these developmental moments into cherished bonding experiences. Take a look at our collection of baby essentials to make tummy time a joyful experience for your little one.
Sources -
https://kidshealth.org/en/parents/positional-plagiocephaly.html
