Tummy Time: Why It’s Essential for Your Baby’s Development

A Small Activity with Big Benefits

“Tummy time” refers to the time your baby spends lying on their stomach while awake and supervised by parents. It’s a simple activity, but it brings huge benefits for a baby’s motor skills and brain development. Still, many parents either don’t know how to do it properly or worry because their baby seems uncomfortable on their tummy.

👉 Understanding the importance of tummy time and how to practice it effectively will help your baby grow stronger and healthier.

Benefits of Tummy Time for Babies

1. Strengthens neck and back muscles: helps babies gain head control and prepares them for milestones such as rolling, crawling, and sitting.

2. Prevents flat head syndrome: reduces the risk of head flattening caused by spending too much time on their back.

3. Stimulates sensory development: gives babies a new perspective to explore their environment, supporting vision and hand–eye coordination.

4. Boosts brain development: physical movement stimulates neural connections in the brain.

5. Encourages bonding with parents: tummy time is a great opportunity for parents to interact and play with their child.

When to Start Tummy Time

• Can begin when your baby is just a few days old, for 1–2 minutes at a time.

• Gradually increase to 15–30 minutes per day as the baby becomes more comfortable.

• Always practice tummy time when the baby is awake and under adult supervision.

How to Make Tummy Time Effective

• Choose a safe surface: place the baby on a soft mat, blanket, or on your chest.

• Start short and frequent: 1–2 minutes, several times a day.

• Use toys or a small mirror to capture the baby’s attention and encourage head lifting.

• Engage with eye contact, smiles, and talking to make tummy time fun.

• Increase difficulty gradually: place toys slightly out of reach to motivate movement.

Important Safety Tips

• Avoid tummy time right after feeding or when the baby is sleepy.

• Always supervise closely—never leave the baby on their tummy alone.

• If the baby gets fussy, pause and try again later—don’t force it.

Though simple, tummy time is a foundation for your baby’s physical, sensory, and brain development. Parents can turn tummy time into a fun bonding experience, helping their child grow stronger and more confident.

👉 Just a few minutes a day can make a big difference in giving your baby the best start in life!