Introduction

Tummy time is the time your baby spends lying face down while awake and supervised. It strengthens the neck, shoulder and back muscles and supports later skills such as sitting and crawling.

Why Is It Important?

  • It strengthens head control
  • It may help reduce flattening that can form on the back of the head
  • It supports motor development

How to Do It

  • For a healthy, full-term baby, you can try short sessions from the time you come home; for a premature baby or a baby with a special health condition, check with your healthcare team. Start with sessions of a few minutes and increase them as your baby tolerates them
  • Use a flat, safe play mat on the floor; avoid beds, sofas and raised surfaces
  • Get down to eye level, talk, and catch their interest with a toy
  • Both the baby and the supervising adult must be awake. If your baby falls asleep, move them onto their back in their own safe bed

What Can Parents Do?

  • Try it a few times a day in short sessions
  • If your baby gets fussy, take a break; don't force it
  • Do it between feedings, not right after one

When Should You See a Doctor?

  • If at around four months your baby cannot hold their head steady without support while being held, talk with a pediatrician; for premature babies, corrected age is used
  • If you notice excessive floppiness or stiffness in the muscles
  • If your baby always looks to the same side or has limited neck movement

Summary

Tummy time, done in safe, short sessions, is a simple habit that supports motor development. Supervision is always a must.

Sources

This app is not a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always consult your doctor or pediatrician for decisions about your baby's health.