The Importance of Tummy Time
If you’ve spent any time around newborns, you’ve probably heard the term tummy time. While it might seem simple, tummy time plays a big role in your baby’s development during the first year. It doesn’t have to be complicated or stressful. With a few small, consistent moments each day, tummy time can become a natural and even enjoyable part of your routine.
What Is Tummy Time?
Tummy time is when your baby spends time on their stomach while they’re awake and supervised. It’s one of the earliest ways babies begin to build strength and explore movement. Because babies sleep on their backs (which is safest), tummy time gives them the chance to develop important muscles they don’t use as much otherwise.
The Importance of Tummy Time
Tummy time helps support several key areas of your baby’s development:
Builds Strength
Spending time on their tummy helps strengthen your baby’s neck, shoulders, arms, and core muscles. These muscles are essential for milestones like rolling, sitting, crawling, and eventually walking.
Supports Motor Development
As your baby pushes up, reaches, and shifts their weight, they’re learning how their body moves. These early movements lay the foundation for future coordination and balance.
Encourages Exploration
Tummy time gives babies a new view of the world. They begin to look around, reach for toys, and interact with their environment in new ways.
Helps Prevent Flat Spots
Since babies spend a lot of time on their backs, tummy time can help reduce pressure on the back of the head.
When and How to Start
You can begin tummy time soon after your baby is born, starting with just a few minutes at a time. Try:
2–3 short sessions a day at first
Gradually increasing as your baby gets stronger
Aiming for a total of about 20–30 minutes a day by a few months old
Don’t worry if your baby doesn’t love it right away, that’s very common.
Making Tummy Time Easier (And More Fun)
Get Down on Their Level
Lie on the floor facing your baby. Your voice and face are their favorite things!
Use Your Chest
Place your baby on your chest while you’re reclined. This still counts as tummy time and can feel more comforting.
Add a Favorite Toy
Place a toy or mirror in front of your baby to encourage them to lift their head and look around.
Keep it Short and Positive
Even a minute or two at a time is helpful. Small moments add up.
What If My Baby Doesn’t Like Tummy Time?
It’s completely normal for babies to fuss during tummy time at first. It uses new muscles, and that can be hard work! If your baby gets upset:
Try shorter sessions more often
Change locations (floor, chest, blanket outside)
Pick a time when they’re well-rested and not too hungry
Consistency matters more than duration. Over time, most babies become more comfortable and even start to enjoy it.
When to Check In
Every baby develops at their own pace, but if your baby:
Has difficulty lifting their head
Seems very uncomfortable during tummy time
Isn’t showing progress over time
…it may be helpful to check in.
At Encompass Family Support Services, we’re here to support both you and your child. We offer free developmental screenings for children under age three in North Dakota and can help you better understand your child’s growth and development.
Small Moments, Strong Foundations
Tummy time might seem like a small part of your day, but it plays a big role in your baby’s development. Like so many things in early childhood, it’s about consistency, connection, and showing up in those everyday moments.
You’re doing more than you think, and your baby is growing with every little effort.
