You’ve heard that babies need “tummy time” to build strong muscles in order to sit up, roll over, scoot or crawl and eventually walk — but when should you start it and what does that entail? According to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), placing your baby on their back to sleep reduces the risk of SIDS, but they still need time on their tummy when they’re up and ready to play.
“Tummy time helps infants to develop strength and body awareness,” says Diana Henry, a pediatric occupational therapist in Flagstaff, Arizona. “It also promotes gross motor skills, such as rolling and crawling, and fine motor skills, such as grasping.”
Below are tips for when to start tummy time and how to get babies used to being on their stomach.
Why tummy time is beneficial for babies
Tummy time is one of the most important ways for babies to develop the strength they need as toddlers. “When infants lift their heads, they gain strength in their necks and shoulders,” Henry says. “And as they shift their weight on to their hands, it begins to open up their fisted hands.” This means that babies can begin to grasp and hold objects better.
According to Dr. Hannah Chow-Johnson, assistant professor at Loyola University Chicago Stritch School of Medicine’s Department of Pediatrics, tummy time can help prevent plagiocephaly (the flattening of the back of the skull) by keeping your baby off their back.
When to start tummy time
It’s never too early to start your child on their tummy, even if you’ve just arrived home from the hospital. “Even newborns can lift their heads up briefly, so have some tummy time right from the start,” Chow-Johnson says.
According to the AAP, you should only put babies on their tummy when they are awake and alert and never leave them unattended.
How to get babies used to tummy time
It may take some time for your baby to get used to being on their tummy, but persevere because it will only get easier (and more enjoyable). Don’t give up if they fuss or cry. “The more you avoid putting him on his tummy, the harder it is for him to develop sufficient control to be more comfortable in this position,” Henry says.
Incorporate brief periods of tummy time throughout baby’s daily routine. AAP recommends giving babies tummy time 2 to 3 times each day for a short period of time (3-5 minutes) and then increasing the amount of time as the baby shows they are enjoying the activity more.
What tummy activities can be fun and helpful
To help babies get used to being on their tummy, join in the fun by trying these activities:
- Lay down together and encourage them with happy faces and a soothing tone of voice.
- To keep babies engaged, prop a board book open for them to see, or place interesting toys and colorful stuffed animals around to capture their attention.
- Put a mirror on the floor so they can look at their reflection.
- Get on their level and sing songs to them or play fun games like peek-a-boo.
- Be sure to encourage family, friends and your child’s caregivers to join them during tummy time as well.
If your little one consistently screams and cries while on their belly, despite some practice (and your best distraction efforts), talk to your pediatrician.
Rebecca Desfosse is a freelance writer specializing in parenting and family topics.
