Tummy Time!

Tummy time is more than just an activity to strengthen your baby’s head, neck, and shoulder muscles. Tummy time is also a vital step in all developmental milestones, like rolling over, crawling, and sitting up. In addition to being important for hitting those milestones, tummy time also develops balance and coordination, visual tracking, and their vestibular system—essential for movement and spatial awareness.

How Much Tummy Time Do Babies Really Need?

The more I talk with parents and see babies in my practice, the more I realize that most babies are not getting nearly enough tummy time. The good news? Starting early makes it easier! Beginning tummy time as soon as your baby is born helps establish it as a habit for both baby and caregivers. An easy way to incorporate tummy time is by placing your baby on their tummy after each diaper change.

Here’s a quick guide for tummy time milestones:

Newborn to 1 Month Old

• Start with just a few minutes a day, working up to 10 minutes per day by one-month-old.
• Easy tummy time positions: tummy-to-tummy, lap soothe, or tummy-down carry.
• Tip: Try placing baby on his or her tummy after changing each diaper.

2 Months Old

• Baby should be holding their head up when turned to one side, gaining neck strength.
• Aim for at least 20 minutes per day of tummy time.
• Make sure to turn baby’s head frequently to prevent stiffness or favoring one side.
• If your baby seems uncomfortable when turned to one side or dislikes tummy time when head is turned in one direction, that is an indicator that they should be assessed by a pediatric chiropractor.

3 Months Old

• Baby now has better head control and should work up to 45 minutes per day of tummy time.
• Encourage engagement by using toys and interacting with baby during tummy time.
• Siblings can help by showing baby toys to keep them entertained.
• Tip: Try using an exercise ball for added fun and movement.

Why Tummy Time Is More Important Than Ever

Tummy time is more important now than ever because of the increased time babies spend on their backs—both during both sleep and play. But tummy time can be completed in many ways that don’t involve laying your baby alone on a blanket on the ground. There are many ways to incorporate it throughout the day!

Fun Ways to Make Tummy Time More Enjoyable

• Tummy-to-Tummy: Lie on your back and place your baby on your chest so they can lift their head to see your face. This helps with bonding and makes tummy time more comforting.
• Tummy Time on a Ball: Gently roll your baby forward and backward on an exercise ball while holding them securely. This can be a fun way to build strength and balance.
• Mirror Play: Place a baby-safe mirror in front of your baby during tummy time so they can see their own reflection. Babies love faces, and this can keep them engaged longer.
• Use a Nursing Pillow: Placing your baby over a nursing pillow can help elevate their chest and make tummy time easier, especially in the early stages.
• Sing and Talk: Make tummy time interactive by singing songs, making funny noises, or talking to your baby to keep them engaged.
• Tummy Time with a Sibling or Pet: If you have older kids or a pet, let them interact with the baby during tummy time. Babies love watching movement, and this can make tummy time feel less like a chore.
• Outdoor Tummy Time: Take tummy time outside on a warm day! Lay a blanket on the grass and let your baby explore a different environment. The fresh air and new sights can make tummy time more stimulating.
• Tummy Time Carry (Or Airplane Games): Try holding your baby tummy-down across your arms. They may also enjoy a simple game of airplane, where you lift them like an airplane and make gentle fyling motions.

If your baby seems uncomfortable in any tummy time position, but is well rested and happy, there may be something else going on. Babies who have a subluxation (a misalignment in their spine that puts stress on the nervous system) in the top of their neck are often very uncomfortable during tummy time. It is important to have your child checked by a pediatric chiropractor if you notice discomfort during tummy time, they are favoring one side, or they have a flat spot on their head.

Let’s Make Tummy Time a Positive Experience

Tummy time should be an enjoyable and beneficial part of your baby’s routine. Keep sessions short and frequent, engage your baby with toys and interaction, and adjust positions as needed. With consistency and care, tummy time will help set the foundation for your baby’s healthy development!

Have questions about tummy time or concerns about your baby reaching developmental milestones? A pediatric chiropractor can help! Pediatric chiropractic care can support your child’s nervous system, improve coordination, and support them as they grow and develop. At Well Family Chiropractic, we specialize in care for babies, kids, and families, providing gentle, effective adjustments to support healthy development. We’d love to help your child thrive! To learn more about how chiropractic care can support your little one’s growth or to get started, request an appointment today.