Written by Laura – Resident Baby Nurse at Choice Pharmacy
Tummy time for your baby
- Tummy time is when you place your baby on their stomach when they are awake. This doesn’t have to be flat on the floor, either.
- Tummy time is very important to help strengthen your baby’s muscles and help to take pressure off their head. This is beneficial for the head shape, too.
- Some babies will be unhappy with their tummy as their heads are heavy and tummy time is hard for them.
- Even though babies may feel uncomfortable initially, it is important to keep trying. Even just a few minutes a day is needed.
- Supervised tummy time is important because it helps to strengthen the baby’s neck, shoulder, and arm muscles so the baby can start to sit up, crawl, and eventually walk on their own.
When can I start tummy time?
- Tummy time is ideal to start from birth.
- Starting them early is beneficial for their strength and often they become used to it, easily.
- Tummy time should become part of the regular routine.
- It only needs to be for short periods, as tolerated.
How can I do tummy time with my baby?
Tummy time can be done in a number of ways.
These ways include:-
- Newborns can lay across your chest or across your lap.
- Laying them on their tummy on the floor on a comfortable mat.
- Place toys in their front to distract them for longer periods.
- Make noises or lay face to face to encourage them to lift their heads.
- If they favour one side- encourage placing toys or sitting on the other side.
- As they get older, encourage longer periods for tummy time.
- Place a mirror in front of them to look at themselves.
- Place them on a gym ball while holding them safely.
- Over a rolled up towel.
Other important information…
- Always stay with baby while they are practicing tummy time.
- Encourage your baby to sleep on their back. (as per SIDS guidelines)
- Tummy time should be on a low surface that is safe for baby. Never have them on the bed/lounge.
- Do not lie them on a pillow where baby can smother.
- Encourage tummy time even if they don’t enjoy it. Sing songs to them/read stories/play simple fun music.
- Ensure they practice tummy time every day. Even if they’re not enjoying it, it will benefit them later on.
You can book our Baby Nurse for in-store consultation online.
Free Baby Nurse Service is available at Box Hill, Colebee, Eastern Creek & North Kellyville Store.
