Hey new parents! It's essential to know about tummy time and its benefits for your baby's development. Tummy time is an easy, engaging activity that builds crucial motor skills and can be introduced from the first few weeks of life.
Tummy time involves placing your baby on their stomach while awake and supervised. The American Academy of Pediatrics suggests at least three to five minutes, two to three times a day, increasing gradually. This activity strengthens neck, shoulder, and core muscles, helping your baby reach milestones like lifting their head, rolling over, and crawling. It also helps prevent flat head syndrome by reducing time spent on their back.
To start, choose a comfortable surface and engage your baby with toys, mirrors, or your face. Always supervise tummy time and never leave your baby unattended. As they get stronger, you'll notice improved movements and motor skills. Tummy time is a simple, enjoyable, and essential practice for your baby's growth, so let's get those little tummies working!
Thanks for stopping by. Enjoy tummy time. It was one of our favorite activities.
Additional information can be found here:
1. American Academy of Pediatrics. (2021). Tummy Time. HealthyChildren.org. https://www.healthychildren.org/English/ages-stages/baby/sleep/Pages/The-Importance-of-Tummy-Time.aspx
2. Pathways.org. (n.d.). The Importance of Tummy Time for Babies: Benefits, Tips & Activities. https://pathways.org/topics-of-development/tummy-time/
3. Nemours KidsHealth. (2020). Tummy Time. https://kidshealth.org/en/parents/tummy-time.html
4. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2021). Important Milestones: Your Baby By Four Months. https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/actearly/milestones/milestones-4mo.html