Tummy Time - our top tips for new parents
Tummy Time is one of baby's first exercises and the most important for their development foundations including helping with strength, body awareness, balance, vision, head shape and movement to name a few.
It is recommended to aim for 60minutes per day – however many babies can protest tummy time, especially on the floor in the early days which can make this goal seem unachievable.
Our paediatric physio’s suggest starting with 3-5 minute bouts at a time each awake window and gradually building in the minutes as baby tolerates it more.
The key to successful tummy time throughout the day is changing it up and creating opportunity where possible.
Suggestions from physio’s Beck and Emma include (from newborn to slightly older babies):
- Tummy time on mum/dad chest
- Safe baby wearing in carriers
- Over your lap / travel pillow/ or towel
- Sidelying hold
- Superman hold
- Play in front of a mirror
- Undress & Nappy free time
- On an exercise ball
- Water play mats or bath time
- Mum and bubs pilates/ exercise
- Change of scenery-take them outside