The Importance of Tummy Time

And what you can do to make sure your tot gets the most out of it

Baby doing tummy time on a play mat

If you’re a new mama, chances are, you’ve heard the words “tummy time.” And you may have wondered exactly what those words meant – after all, aren’t all babies supposed to sleep on their backs now? Well, yes – but that’s exactly why tummy time is so important. Allow us to explain.

 

What Is Tummy Time

Tummy time is essentially allowing your tot to spend time lying on their stomach while they’re awake. Because doctors now recommend that all babies sleep on their backs, to reduce the risk of SIDS, tummy time is more important than ever. One of the consequences of babies always sleeping on their backs – although it’s the safest way – is that they tend to be slower to develop gross motor skills that allow them to sit up, push up, roll over and crawl. Some babies even develop flat spots on the back of their heads, known as ‘plagiocephaly’ or ‘flat head syndrome’. So doctors now recommend that babies – from as young as one day old! – spend time on their tummies every single day.

 

When to practise tummy time

 

It’s never too early to start tummy time – in fact, most doctors recommend you begin placing your tot on his belly for a few minutes every day from the day you get home from hospital. For the first few weeks, and only when your baby is awake and alert, try placing your him on his stomach on a hard surface, such as the floor, for just two to three minutes at a time, several times a day. Slowly increase this amount until your baby is spending 15 uninterrupted minutes each day on their tummy.

It’s important that your tot is comfortable during tummy time. Don’t place them on their stomach if they’ve just eaten, or if they’re hungry (around 30 minutes to an hour after feeding is best). Do tummy time when your baby is feeling settled – putting your tot down while they’re crying will only enforce a negative association with the practise!

 

How to get the most out of tummy time

 

Some moms say that their baby doesn’t like tummy time, but it’s important to persist, even if your baby fusses. Some ways to encourage your baby to love tummy time include:

  • Getting down there with him. Lie on the floor on your tummy, opposite your baby. Talk to him, sing, read a book or show him toys.
  • Use props. A firm, rolled-up towel underneath your baby may help them feel more comfortable.
  • Try laying her on your tummy – you can do this in the bath, too, if that helps your tot.
  • Give your baby something to do when she’s on the floor. Place a board book in front of her, or perhaps some soft toys or even a mirror.

 

The best play mats for tummy time

 

 

Toki Mats Olive Branch Playmat

Toki Mats 

 

$165 – $305

Available in more prints

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Malabar Baby Play Mat Indigo

Malabar Bar Play Mat

 

$55

Available in more colors

BUY NOW

 

 

Wee Gallery Safari Explore Playmat

Wee Gallery Explore Organic Playmat 

 

$89.95

BUY NOW

 

 

Ruggish Lulu Play Rug

 

$199

BUY NOW

 

 

Nook Lilypad Playmat in Misty

Nook Sleep Systems Lilypad Playmat

 

$149

BUY NOW

 

 

The best toys for tummy time

 

Play & Learn Bundle 0-3m

The Tot Play & Learn Set + Activity Booklet: 0-3 months

 

$120

BUY NOW

 

 

BabyNoise Wooden Double Maraca in Natural & White

BabyNoise Double Maraca

 

$19

BUY NOW

 

 

Wee Gallery Friendly Faces on The Farm

Wee Gallery Friendly Faces on the Farm Soft Book

 

$16.95

BUY NOW

 

 

Cheengoo Market Veggie Rattle Set

 

$40

BUY NOW

 

 

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