free shipping on all full-size bundles
Tummy time is important for your baby as you'll probably hear a lot, but there's no need to overcomplicate it either. Here's what you need to know.
When you place baby on their belly while awake and supervised
It builds neck, shoulder, and core strength, when can relieve torticollis (tight muscles on one side of the neck) and which your baby will use later to roll over, sit up, and crawl
It also helps prevent flat spots from developing on the head
Start with one minute 2-3x a day, working up over a few months to 10-15 mins several times a day
It may seem like a little, but it's a lot of exercise for a newborn!
Lay baby on their belly on the floor or across your thighs and
Recline with baby on your chest facing you while you chat or sing to them
Carry baby tummy-down like they're an airplane with your forearm and hand underneath supporting belly
It's normal to not enjoy exercising! Here are some tips if your baby isn't a fan:
Prop a rolled towel, pillow, or Boppy under your baby's chest with their arms out in front
Prop a rolled towel against baby's back and head while they lay on their side
Do this when they're on their back (e.g., in the bassinet, stroller, on the floor) so they're not always putting pressure on the same spot on their head
While tummy time can help baby develop gross motor skills earlier, no research shows it will make your child smarter, faster, or better in any way over the long term
So relax, keep trying, and as always trust your instincts and bring it up to your doctor if you're concerned about any developmental delays, flat spots, torticollis, or other concerns
