There are many benefits to supervised tummy time for babies starting soon after birth. Three to five minutes of tummy time each day builds head, neck and upper body strength. As babies get older, they can have 15 to 30 minutes of total tummy time daily.
Babies who are not encouraged to have tummy time might be delayed in developing some motor skills. They may take longer to start crawling and reaching for toys, and slower to develop core strength, coordination and balance. The teachers in the infant classrooms at Endless Discoveries Child Development Center understand the value of daily tummy time.
Remember "back to sleep" and "tummy to play." Babies spend a lot of time on their backs with their heads in one position, which can cause flat spots on the back of their heads. Tummy time helps to prevent this.
The best method for tummy time is to be on the floor in front of your baby, with toys within reach. Your baby will be motivated to move, lift, turn their head, and reach for the toy. This also helps to develop your baby's eye strength, keeping them interested. Having a non-breakable mirror nearby so they can see themselves is also a great way to keep their interest.
If your baby doesn't like tummy time on the floor, start out on your lap or your chest and gradually transition to time on the floor.
If you have questions, talk to the teachers in your child's classroom at Endless Discoveries.
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