Tummy time is an activity that consists of placing the baby face down on a firm, safe surface while awake and under supervision. Tummy time is essential for the healthy development of babies, as it helps them strengthen their neck, shoulder, back and abdominal muscles. These muscles are critical for babies to reach developmental milestones such as rolling over, crawling and walking.
Benefits of face-down time:
- Improves muscle strength and coordination: When the baby is on its stomach, it is forced to lift its head and use its neck, shoulder and back muscles to stay upright. This helps improve your muscle strength and coordination, which will allow you to perform more complex movements as you grow.
- Stimulates gross and fine motor development: Tummy time also encourages the development of gross and fine motor skills, such as reaching and grasping objects, moving around the environment, and making coordinated hand and foot movements.
- Encourages exploration of the environment and curiosity: By being in a different position, the baby has the opportunity to explore its surroundings from a new perspective. This stimulates their curiosity and encourages them to investigate and learn about the world around them.
- Prevents positional plagiocephaly (flat head): Spending too much time in one position, such as always being on the back, can cause a deformity in the baby’s head called positional plagiocephaly. Tummy time helps prevent this condition by distributing pressure evenly over the baby’s head.
When and how to start “Tummy Time”?
Recommended starting age:
It is important to start “tummy time” early, even from the first weeks of life. Newborn babies can start with short sessions of 1 to 2 minutes, several times a day, as long as they feel comfortable and the pediatrician approves. As the baby grows older and stronger, the duration and frequency of tummy time sessions can be gradually increased.
Tips to initiate your baby in this activity:
- Choose a time when your baby is calm and awake: The best time to do tummy time is when your baby is awake, alert and in a good mood. Avoid doing so right after eating, as this may cause discomfort and increase the risk of regurgitation.
- Use a firm, secure surface: Place your baby on a blanket or mat on the floor, making sure the surface is flat, firm and secure. Avoid soft surfaces, such as mattresses, sofas or beds, as they can make it difficult for the baby to breathe and increase the risk of suffocation.
- Accompany your baby during tummy time: Sit next to your baby and always keep your baby in sight during tummy time sessions. This will provide him with security and confidence, as well as allow you to monitor his well-being at all times.
- Vary the position of objects and toys: Place colorful and textured toys around your baby to stimulate his interest and encourage him to move and explore. Changing the location of toys can also help your baby develop the ability to move his head and neck in different directions.
How much Tummy Time does my baby need?
Recommended times according to the baby’s age:
- Newborns: 1-2 minutes, several times daily
- 1-3 months: 20-30 minutes daily, divided into several sessions.
- 4-6 months: 30-60 minutes per day, divided into several sessions.
How to gradually increase the time face down:
- Watch for signs of tiredness or discomfort in your baby: Pay attention to your baby’s reactions during tummy time sessions. If he shows signs of tiredness or discomfort, such as crying or irritability, he may need to rest or change position.
- Gradually increase the time: As your baby gets stronger and more accustomed to tummy time, you can gradually increase the length of the sessions. It is not necessary to follow a strict schedule; the important thing is to adapt the “tummy time” to your baby’s needs and abilities.
- Combine tummy time with other daily activities: You can incorporate tummy time into your baby’s daily routine by combining it with other activities, such as diaper changing or playtime. This way, it will be easier to remember to include tummy time in your child’s daily routine.
Positions and activities to make “Tummy Time” more fun and effective
Different positions and variations:
- Lying on a blanket or mat on the floor: This is the most common position for tummy time and allows the baby to freely explore his environment.
- On an adult’s chest or abdomen: This position allows the baby to feel more secure and closer to you, which can help reduce anxiety or fear of tummy time.
- Supported on a pillow or rolled towel under the chest: This variation may be more comfortable for babies who do not yet have sufficient neck and shoulder strength.
Games and interaction during face-down time:
- Place colorful and textured toys around him to stimulate his interest and encourage him to move and explore.
- Use mirrors for the baby to see himself and become familiar with his reflection.
- Encourage your baby to move and reach for objects with his hands and feet, which will help develop his coordination and motor skills.
- Sing songs, talk and smile to your baby during tummy time to keep him motivated and happy. Verbal and visual interaction is fundamental for the baby’s cognitive and emotional development.
Tips for addressing common “Tummy Time” problems.
How to handle a baby who doesn’t enjoy tummy time:
- Start with short sessions and gradually increase them: If your baby is not comfortable with tummy time, start with short sessions and gradually increase their length as they become accustomed to the activity.
- Make sure your baby is rested and well fed before you start: Tummy time will be more enjoyable for your baby if he or she is rested and satisfied. Avoid doing it right after eating, as this may cause discomfort.
- Try different positions and activities: Experiment with different positions and activities to find the ones that best suit your baby and are most enjoyable for him/her.
- Be patient and give your baby time to get used to it: Tummy time can be a new and challenging experience for your baby, so it is important to be patient and give your baby time to adjust to the activity.
Solutions for crying and frustration:
- If your baby cries or gets frustrated during tummy time, offer comfort and soothe him or her before trying again. You can rock him gently, talk to him in a calm voice or sing a song to help him relax.
- Try to do tummy time later, when your baby is calmer and more receptive. You may need a break or a change of activity before you are ready to try again.
- Don’t force tummy time if your baby is very fussy. It is essential that this activity be a positive experience and not a source of stress or discomfort for your child.
Safety during Tummy Time
Supervision and precautions to be taken into account:
- Never leave your baby unsupervised during tummy time. It is essential that you are always present and alert to ensure their safety and well-being.
- Make sure the surface your baby is on is firm, flat and free of hazards, such as small objects or cords that could cause harm.
- Avoid soft pillows or surfaces that may make it difficult for your baby to breathe during tummy time. It is crucial that you always have access to fresh, clean air.
How to avoid sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS):
- Make sure your baby sleeps on his or her back in a crib with a firm mattress and no loose objects, such as blankets, pillows or toys. Sleeping on the back is the safest position to prevent SIDS.
- Tummy time should be performed only when the baby is awake and under supervision. You should never place your baby on his or her stomach to sleep, as this can increase the risk of SIDS.
Conclusion:
Tummy time is an essential activity for the healthy and balanced development of your baby. Through this practice, your little one will strengthen his muscles, develop motor skills and explore the world around him. By following the tips and recommendations provided in this article, you will be able to implement tummy time safely and effectively into your baby’s daily routine.
Remember that every baby is unique and that the most important thing is to follow your pediatrician’s instructions and adapt the practices according to your child’s needs. Be patient and enjoy tummy time with your baby, as it is a wonderful opportunity to strengthen the bond between the two of you and support your baby’s growth and development. Good luck and have fun exploring the world together!
