All about Tummy Time
Why is Tummy Time Important?
Tummy Time is essential for infants because it supports the development of their core, the motor skills, and their sensory development. Infants are trying to make sense of the world around them, and this includes a view of below them. So often, we hold infants with their eyes facing up at our faces or the ceiling. Infants also need to strengthen their neck muscles so they can control their head movements to be able to look all around.
How often should babies have Tummy Time?
Between the ages of 1 month and 3 months old, Infants should have several short spurts of tummy time daily. These moments on their stomach can last anywhere from 2 minutes to 8 minutes, depending on their level of strength and tolerance. We never want babies to be in distress, but we do want to slowly expand the amount of time they are laying on their tummy so they can continue to strengthen those essential muscles needed to sit up independently, crawl, and eventually walk. By 4 months of age, Infants may be rolling and will being to reach for things. Babies love to look at themselves so having a mirror in front Baby is a great way to keep them calm and interested in being on their stomach. Toys and pictures just out of reach also motivate Baby to start moving around!
Why does my baby “hate” Tummy Time?
If your baby cries during tummy time, it can mean many things. Holding up their head is really hard for infants; it’s just like working out for adults. But after practice and time, we get stronger and the exercise gets easier. The same is true for infants. Offering something for the baby to look at can help quite a bit - toys, books, familiar faces, mirrors etc. When Baby has something to look at, the hard work of picking up their head is a little easier. As they get stronger, they will begin to look from side to side. Having different things or people on the side of Baby can help them learn to turn towards and away from things.
If your baby does not settle into tummy time after a few weeks, reach out to your pediatrician. This could be the result of so many things, so seeking professional opinions can really help.
Why do babies get flat spots?
“Back to Sleep” was a huge campaign that helped to drastically reduce the number of SIDs deaths in the United States; a huge win for families! However, a result of placing baby on their back constantly meant an increase in plagiocephaly cases. Flat head syndrome, also known as plagiocephaly, is a common condition where a baby's head develops a flattened area due to prolonged pressure on one side of the head, often while sleeping on their back. It's usually caused by the baby consistently lying with their head in the same position for extended periods. Making sure your infant gets plenty of tummy time can reduce the risk of flat spots developing on their head, but remember, always be with your baby during tummy time. We never want a baby to be in distress and alone, as this can cause stress for the baby and risk for SIDs.