When your baby lies on their tummy, they’re not just being cute—they’re building the muscles and motor skills they’ll need for crawling, sitting, and eventually walking. Tummy time is one of the most important activities for your baby’s physical and cognitive development in the first few months of life. Yet, for some babies (and let’s be honest—parents too), tummy time can feel like a struggle. Here’s why it matters and how to make it a joyful part of your daily routine.
The Benefits of Tummy Time
According to the AAP, tummy time should begin as soon as your baby comes home from the hospital. Start with a few minutes at a time, working up to at least 15-30 minutes daily by 3 months old, broken into short sessions. Tummy time plays a crucial role in helping infants reach several developmental milestones, including:
- Strengthening neck, shoulder, and arm muscles (American Academy of Pediatrics)
- Preventing flat spots on the back of the head (plagiocephaly)
- Supporting visual development as baby lifts their head to look around
- Building the foundation for rolling, crawling, and walking
- Encouraging sensory exploration and body awareness
What If My Baby Hates Tummy Time?
It’s perfectly normal for some babies to resist tummy time. Babies often dislike tummy time because it feels like hard work for muscles that aren’t yet strong. Holding their head up against gravity is a new and exhausting task, often leaving them frustrated. Here are some ways to make it easier:
- Start Small: Try just 1-2 minutes at a time, several times a day. Gradually increase as baby gains strength. Lifting their head and chest against gravity engages muscles they haven’t fully developed yet. It’s literally their first “workout,” and that can be tough.
- Get on the Floor with Them: Newborns spend much of their waking time on their backs (in car seats, swings, etc.), so belly-down positions can feel foreign and disconcerting. Your face is your baby’s favorite thing to see. Lie face-to-face during tummy time to encourage connection.
- Use a Tummy Time Pillow: Specially designed tummy time mats or nursing pillows can make the position more comfortable.
- Make It Fun: Place colorful toys, mirrors, or books within reach to spark curiosity.
- Try Chest-to-Chest: Lay baby tummy-down on your chest while you recline. It counts as tummy time and feels safe and cozy. Especially at first, babies can’t lift their heads well, so they end up face-down with little to see—this can be frustrating and distressing.
- Incorporate Music & Singing: A soothing voice or lullaby can help babies relax during tummy time.
Tips for Success
- Be consistent: Even 5 minutes a few times a day makes a difference.
- Choose a time when baby is well-fed and rested.
- Make tummy time part of your play routine, not a chore.
- Celebrate small victories like lifting the head or propping on elbows are big wins!
Tummy time is a small daily habit with big long-term benefits. By making it a positive, playful experience, you’ll help your baby build the strength and coordination they need for exciting milestones ahead—and you’ll enjoy those precious bonding moments along the way. We want to help at The Gingerbread House you will find our teachers working with your child to create a safe, enjoyable tummy time experience. Book at Tour to see our Infant Room today.