Tummy Time

22 May Tummy Time

When we have new born babies we hear a lot about tummy time, but why is it so important? And how much tummy time should our babies do?

Why is it important?

Lying on tummy’s is important for babies as it helps to develop neck, back, hip and arm strength (So basically the whole body). The amount of tummy time varies with age. You can start tummy time as soon as your baby is born. Usually start with 1-2 minutes at a time and gradually build this up. Remember to always supervise your child whilst they are lying on their stomach.

It is important to note that tummy time is not simply lying on the ground. It can also be when you are holding them with their belly to your chest or when you are holding them in superman style. All of these different positions are fantastic to help your baby build up strength.

What if my child doesn’t like it?

Some babies are not fans of tummy time. Remember short but frequent bursts of tummy time is essential to build up their tolerance. Some ways to make tummy time easier and more enjoyable for your bub are to:

• Get down to their level so they can look up at your face! This makes it more motivating for them.
• Support their arms so their elbows are bent under their shoulders, this takes a lot of pressure of their neck muscles
• Place a rolled-up towel under their shoulders to take some of the pressure of their shoulders.
• Lie on your back and place your baby on your chest. You can do this from a semi-reclined position which is easier for your baby, or you can lie flat on your back.
• Use an exercise ball. This way you can roll them backwards which takes pressure of their arms and makes it easier or challenge them and roll the ball forwards making it harder for them. You can also do this in front of a mirror so they get to look at themselves.

Please note that not all exercise balls are the same. Anti-burst balls are the safest as if these get a whole they will slowly deflate.

How long should I do tummy time for?

As your baby gets older and spends more time on their tummy, they will start to get more active. By 2-3 months they should be happy to spend 10-15 minutes on their tummy and will be looking around a lot. At 3-4 months they should be able to prop all the way onto their arms and start to kick their legs a lot. 4-6 months they should be starting to pivot around and rolling. From 6 months your baby will gradually develop the essential skills for crawling!

Please remember each child is different, some will be early to push up and roll and others a little later. If you do have concerns, please do not hesitate to contact the physiotherapists are Western Paediatric Physiotherapy.