Tummy Time

Tummy Time:

This catch phrase has been used to describe the time that a baby is on his stomach. In 1994 the back to sleep campaign was launched and changed the ratio of time spent on the stomach and on the back in an effort to reduce SIDS (Sudden infant death syndrome).

The motion did in fact reduce SIDS however; there have been consequences to the shift from tummy to back. Babies have become more comfortable on their backs and find tummy time more difficult. There has been an increase in cranial asymmetry (misshapen heads) and fussiness when being placed in prone (on the stomach). Babies’ skulls are still soft and constant pressure on the back of the head can have a flattening effect.
 

Tummy time gets babies off their backs! Tummy time helps babies learn to push up, roll over, sit up, crawl and stand. It offers the building blocks for the future acquisition of motor milestones by strengthening the neck and shoulder muscles. It is important to make this time enjoyable for the baby.

Parents are encouraged to join their child on the floor or on the bed. The use of mirrors, music screens, books and rattles could help encourage the child to be persistent and work hard to remain in the challenging position. An exercise ball or a parent’s lap may be a good alternative to the floor. Once a child feels more secure and is allowed to play in a slightly easier position, they will be able to progress to play in a full horizontal position on the floor.
 

It is important to remember that every child is different. 30 minutes of daily tummy time is recommended but this time can be split into shorter sessions throughout the day. Parents need to be patient and decide how much fussing they will tolerate before picking up the child and ending the play. Stay positive and make it fun! Your child will thank you!
 

A physiotherapist may be consulted for advice. He/she will also be able to evaluate the possible reasons for a child’s difficulty and propose some adapted methods to achieve the benefits of tummy time.