Tummy time during wake periods is important for a newborn’s development from birth until they are walking on their own. With options like bouncy seats, baby carriers, and swings, babies often don’t spend enough time on their tummies while awake. Many parents have difficulty getting their babies to enjoy tummy time. The good news is, there are lots of ways to make tummy time fun!
Tummy Time Tools, a downloadable tip sheet from Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, provides parents with ideas and activities to ensure that little ones get enough supervised time on their tummies throughout the day. This resource includes ideas to help babies enjoy tummy time. It also offers suggestions for how to get tummy time in while diapering, carrying, feeding, and playing.
Benefits of tummy time:
- It promotes muscle development in your baby’s neck and shoulders.
- It helps prevent tight neck muscles and the development of flat spots on the back or side of your baby's head.
- It builds the muscles your baby needs to roll, sit, and crawl.
If your baby has ongoing trouble enjoying tummy time or struggles to lift their head during tummy time, talk to your pediatrician and consider having a physical therapist evaluate your child. You also can contact your state’s early intervention program for services and support.
Physical therapists are movement experts who improve quality of life through hands-on care, patient education, and prescribed movement. You can contact a physical therapist directly for an evaluation. To locate a physical therapist in your area, visit Find a PT.
