What is Tummy Time

Tummy time is a simple yet crucial activity for babies, involving placing them on their stomachs while they're awake and supervised. But you might wonder why it’s so essential. Many parents are familiar with the “Back to Sleep” campaign from the 90s, which successfully reduced the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) by encouraging parents to place babies on their backs to sleep. However, a side effect of this approach has been an increase in babies spending extended periods on their backs—not just during sleep but in various “containers” like car seats, swings, and bouncers.

A common hesitation for tummy time comes from an understandable fear among parents who have learned that putting babies on their bellies is associated with risk. However, there’s an important distinction: it’s only dangerous for babies to be on their stomachs while sleeping. Tummy time when a baby is awake and supervised is actually essential for their physical development. By placing babies on their tummies, parents are encouraging vital muscle strengthening in the neck, back, and shoulders—muscles that aren’t engaged while babies lie on their backs.

Studies, including those using EEG tests, show that babies in car seats and other “containers” don’t engage the same postural muscles needed for physical growth and coordination. Tummy time has a direct, positive impact on motor development, and there’s a strong relationship between the amount of tummy time a baby gets and their physical progress. Babies who spend adequate time on their stomachs often meet developmental milestones sooner, as they have the opportunity to build the strength needed for future skills like sitting up, crawling, and eventually walking.

The trend of babies spending extended periods on their backs has also led to a rise in torticollis (tightness on one side of the neck) and flat spots on babies' heads, known as positional plagiocephaly. Parents should look out for signs of their baby favoring one side or any noticeable flat spots on their heads and bring these concerns up with a pediatrician as early as possible. Studies show that addressing these issues before 4 months of age significantly improves the chances of full correction, making early intervention crucial.

So, how much tummy time does your baby need? Most guidelines recommend starting as early as the first week of life, beginning with short sessions and gradually increasing the time as your baby builds strength. Aim for around 30 minutes per day by three months old. And remember, it’s okay to break this up into smaller intervals.

 

• Lovevery play kits: Designed to support various stages of baby development, these kits encourage movement and exploration during tummy time.


• Tum Tum Wedge: These beautiful, pediatric-physical-therapist-approved mats make tummy time more comfortable and enjoyable for babies. Shop for yours here.


• Tummy time classes: Many local centers and online classes offer structured tummy time sessions to help parents guide their babies in developing strong motor skills.

 

It’s also essential to reduce the use of containers when possible. While car seats and swings are practical for certain moments, extended time in these can hinder your baby’s motor development.

The more tummy time a baby experiences, the better they’ll be able to strengthen and develop muscles critical for motor skills. So, if you're expecting, consider adding some tummy-time-friendly items to your baby registry, and remember to look out for signs like favoring one side or developing a flat spot, and consult your pediatrician as needed. Early intervention can make all the difference in helping your baby reach those important developmental milestones with strength and confidence.

Want to learn more about how to optimize your tummy time experience? Listen to this podcast episode with Dr. Mirav Newman, pediatric physical therapist.