When to Start Tummy Time: Introduce tummy time when your infant is between the ages of 3 and 4 months old.
How to Introduce Tummy Time: Tummy time refers to time that your baby spends on his or her tummy. However, this doesn't have to be on a flat surface right from the start. Instead, introduce tummy time by allowing your baby to rest on your forearm, tummy down, or by laying your baby across your chest, tummy down, so that you are facing one another.
Benefits of Tummy Time: Tummy time is important for infants because it helps them develop the gross motor skills that they will need in order to eventually roll over, sit up, and crawl. In addition, spending a small amount of time each day on their tummies can prevent babies from developing a flat area along the back of their skulls, from sleeping on their backs.
Developing a Tummy Time Routine: Ideally, you will want to work up to approximately 30 minutes of tummy time each day. For example, you might plan ten minutes of tummy time in the morning, ten minutes in the afternoon, and ten minutes in the evening. As your baby develops the muscular strength needed to sustain longer periods of him holding his head up, you will be able to lengthen the individual tummy time sessions.
How to Play During Tummy Time: In the beginning, your baby may not be comfortable being on his tummy. You can ease any discomfort, though, by turning the activity into something you are doing together. Lay on the floor beside your baby, on your tummy, and talk to him about the toys that are within his reach. In addition, help him to grasp them, shake them, and play with them. Before long, your baby will enjoy having the opportunity to practice his tummy time routine alongside you.
