Tummy Time Can Prevent Your Newborn from Developing Plagiocephaly

Introducing Your Baby to Tummy Time

Introducing your infant to tummy time, helps prevent your child from developing flat spots on their head, but it also has additional benefits that help improve your infant’s development.  It helps strengthen their neck muscles, develops their larger muscles, and they begin developing their fine motors skills when they reach for your shirt, blanket, or toys.  Many parents lay a blanket or a play mat on the floor and place their baby on it.  Once your baby begins to hold his or her head up, you can prop them up on a boppy so that they can easily look around without their arms giving out.  It is very important that you supervise your baby closely while they are on their tummy.

Alternative Ways to Introduce Your Infant to Tummy Time

If you find that your baby doesn’t enjoy tummy time, there are some alternative ways to allow your baby to have the benefits without laying on the floor.  You can place your baby face down on your arms, so that you are supporting them (I will post a photo).  This gives them the opportunity to look around and exercise their larger muscle groups.  Another great way to implement tummy time, have your baby lay on your chest while you are laying down or reclining.  This will allow your baby to attempt to hold their head up and move their arms and legs.

Make Tummy Time Fun

Do you have an exercise or labor ball?  If so, you can place your baby on the ball.  Then move the ball back and forth gently.  This can make playtime fun and enjoyable.

Don’t Force Your Infant To Enjoy Tummy Time

Avoid tummy time when your infant is sleepy.  The best time to try tummy time, is when your baby is alert and content.  Immediately pick up your baby, if they start crying.  You don’t want tummy time to be unpleasant or make them uncomfortable.

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Does your baby enjoy tummy time?