What tummy time and why is it so important for babies?

Tummy time; It's a phrase many expectant and new parents have heard often with little context.

So, what is it and why is it so important for little ones to lie on their bellies for periods during the day?

Why is tummy time important?

In simple terms, it's like your baby's first exercise routine and it helps them to develop their motor, visual, and sensory development.

Research has also shown that it can help strengthen their head, neck and back muscles and ensure they experience feeling on the front of their bodies.

It can also prevent the development of certain conditions such as flat head syndrome (positional plagiocephaly) and twisted neck (positional torticollis).

You don't have to wait for your newborn to reach a certain age before you start tummy time, in fact, it's best to start it as soon as you get home from the hospital and build a routine.

Where to do tummy time

You don't need any fancy set-up to get started, a firm, flat surface is perfect.

During the day you can place your baby on their tummy with their hands out at either side to support themselves, making sure to stay close to them throughout this time.

Remember to always place your baby on their back if they fall asleep during tummy time. This is to reduce the risk of sudden infant death syndrome.

How long should they do it for?

Aim to achieve at least an hour total per day by three months of age.

This hour of tummy time can be broken up into smaller parts throughout the day. From newborn age, start with a few minutes at a time and build up to longer sessions.

When can we stop?

Once baby begins crawling - around seven to nine months - they will be getting the developmental benefits of tummy time while moving, and it is not as essential to have a dedicated time for it.

However, it is still beneficial to have baby spend some time on their bellies during play.

Different ways to do tummy time

Tummy-to-Tummy or Tummy-to-Chest: Lie down on the floor or a bed, flat or propped up on pillows. Place baby on your chest or tummy, so you and your little one are face-to-face. Always hold firmly for safety.

Tummy Down Carry or Football Hold: Position one hand under the tummy and between the legs and carry baby tummy down.

Use the other hand to support their head and neck while nestling them close to your body to help get the baby accustomed to the position.

Lap Soothe: Place baby face down across your lap and put a hand on their bottom to help steady and calm them.

Eye-Level Smile: Get down to baby's level to encourage eye contact. Baby loves to see your face!

early years