Optimal Tummy Time Guide
Rachel Heidling, OTR/L — February 9th, 2024
Tummy time is more than just strengthening… it is a very important play position. I would argue that tummy time sets the foundation for all future development.
Tummy Time Benefits:
Tolerating tummy time well means a baby is firing primitive reflexes, strengthening shoulder girdle, strengthening hand muscles needed for fine motor development, and building strength in the neck, core, and back that is essential rolling, sitting, crawling and standing!
How long should each tummy time session last?
Tummy time is not something your baby should be suffering through so that you can tick a box saying your baby spent X amount of time in this position. As they show discomfort, roll them out, and try again later. Consistent short exposures will increase their tummy time tolerance. Follow their lead and build up time as they build strength!
Pretty sure my kiddo is just lazy…
Many parents think their little is “just lazy” and unmotivated when they are having a hard time with tummy time. But, babies are hard-wired to move! So littles who aren’t showing much interest in movement or who are unable to tolerate tummy time are simply communicating, “This is hard!” There is always a reason. And whether that reason is tension, reflux, weakness, or something else, Rachel helps parents get to the root cause of tummy time troubles and then work through it.
Starter Tips?
Start early! Once you and baby are home, you can begin to build their tummy time tolerance. The gold standard for initial tummy time is on the caregiver’s chest for the first 2 weeks. This helps you become attuned to your baby’s hunger cues, fosters bonding, and is a modified tummy time position, which minimizes the effects of gravity, making tummy time easier. But it’s all so new, so practice, practice, practice! Give your little many opportunities for tummy time and floor play by making it part of your daily routine. This ensures your little is building their tolerance of the play position and gaining the benefits from it. Building opportunities into your routine may look like taking a few minutes after each diaper change to hang out on their tummy.
Red Flags:
Unable to lift head to 45 degrees by 2 months
Unable to hold head upright and keep centered by 2 months
Unable to lay head down or relax at all while doing tummy time
Consistently rolling out of tummy time prior to 3 months
Unable to hold weight on forearms/prop up on elbow by 3 months
Unable to push up through extended arms and open palms by 5 months
Strong head turn preference or head flattening (or a diagnosis of torticollis/plagiocephaly)
If your little experiences any of the above, book a Free 15 Minute Call with Rachel to discuss how her 1:1 virtual “Troubleshoot Tummy Time” Consultations can help!
