Tummy time may sound simple – just placing your baby on their stomach for a few minutes each day – but it plays a huge role in your child’s early development. From strengthening muscles to supporting motor skills and even preventing flat spots on the head, tummy time is one of the most important routines you can introduce during infancy.
If you’re a new parent wondering when to start tummy time, how to do it safely, and what benefits it offers, here’s everything you need to know.
What Is Tummy Time?
Tummy time is the practice of placing your baby on their stomach while they’re awake and supervised. It encourages them to lift their head, push up with their arms, and eventually roll, crawl, and sit.
Since babies spend a lot of time lying on their backs (especially during sleep), tummy time helps balance their physical development and prevents muscle weakness or flattening of the back of the head – a condition known as positional plagiocephaly.
It’s never too early to start. As soon as your baby comes home, you can begin with short, gentle sessions on a firm, safe surface.
Why Is Tummy Time So Important?
Babies aren’t born with the neck and upper body strength needed for head control or movement. Tummy time helps develop these muscles gradually and lays the groundwork for key milestones.
Strengthening Core Muscles
When your baby lifts their head or pushes up with their arms, they’re engaging neck, shoulder, and back muscles. These same muscles later help with crawling and sitting upright.
Supporting Motor Development
Tummy time helps babies learn how to coordinate movement – rolling, reaching, and balancing. These early actions are essential for brain-body connection and long-term motor control.
Preventing Flat Head Syndrome
Babies who spend too much time lying on their backs can develop flat spots on the back or side of the head. Tummy time redistributes pressure and promotes healthy skull shape.
Encouraging Sensory Exploration
When babies are placed on their stomach, they experience the world from a different angle. This boosts visual tracking, spatial awareness, and curiosity.
Promoting Cognitive Development
Through touch and movement, babies learn cause and effect – for instance, discovering that pushing up lets them see more of their surroundings. It may look like play, but it’s building the foundation for learning and problem-solving.
When to Start Tummy Time
You can start tummy time from day one – even newborns benefit from brief sessions lasting just one or two minutes. Gradually increase the duration as your baby grows stronger and more comfortable.
- Newborns (0–3 months): 2–3 short sessions daily, lasting 1–5 minutes each
- 3–6 months: Aim for 20–30 minutes total per day, broken into shorter intervals
- 6 months and beyond: Your baby will likely spend plenty of time on their tummy naturally as they prepare to crawl
Always supervise tummy time closely, and make sure your baby is alert, happy, and not immediately after a feed.
How to Make Tummy Time Enjoyable
Some babies take to tummy time easily, while others protest at first. It’s completely normal – lifting their head is hard work. The trick is to make it engaging and gradual.
1. Start on Your Chest
Lie back and place your baby on your chest so you’re face-to-face. This makes tummy time more comforting, especially for newborns.
2. Use a Soft Blanket or Play Mat
Lay a clean blanket or padded play mat on the floor. The texture gives your baby something to grip and explore while keeping them comfortable.
3. Add Toys and Mirrors
Bright toys, rattles, or baby-safe mirrors encourage your little one to lift their head and reach forward. It turns exercise into play.
4. Get Down at Eye Level
Join your baby on the floor and talk, sing, or smile at them. Your presence motivates them to stay longer and try harder.
5. Keep It Short and Positive
If your baby gets fussy, end the session and try again later. Frequent, short bursts are far more effective (and enjoyable) than long, stressful sessions.
Safety Tips for Tummy Time
Safety is non-negotiable. Always ensure:
- Your baby is awake and supervised – never leave them unattended.
- The surface is firm, flat, and clear of loose blankets or pillows.
- Tummy time takes place on the floor, not on a bed or sofa.
- Stop immediately if your baby appears tired or distressed.
If your baby has reflux, try tummy time when they’re not too full, or position them slightly upright using your chest or arms for support.
How Tummy Time Supports Overall Development
Tummy time isn’t just about physical strength – it supports emotional and sensory development too. Babies gain confidence as they master new movements, and those small wins fuel curiosity and independence.
You’ll notice that as your baby becomes stronger, they’ll start smiling more during tummy time. They’ll push up higher, reach further, and explore more – clear signs of growing confidence.
Building early physical skills also lays the foundation for later coordination, balance, and posture. In short, those few minutes a day are helping your baby prepare for milestones months down the road.
Incorporating Tummy Time into Daily Routine
Consistency matters more than duration. Try adding tummy time into your baby’s day at natural moments:
- After nappy changes
- Following naps (once they’re alert and happy)
- While you’re sitting on the floor reading or relaxing
- During play sessions with siblings or toys
Even two or three minutes here and there adds up over the day.
The Role of Postnatal Health Checks
If you have concerns about your baby’s development or mobility, mention them during your postnatal appointments. Regular checks ensure your baby is meeting milestones at a healthy pace.
With our expert child health consultations at GG Healthcare, you’ll get reassurance, as well as any support you might need on motor development, feeding, or other postnatal concerns. Early advice can help you adjust tummy time techniques or rule out any underlying issues.
You can also learn more about postnatal baby health and how early monitoring helps detect and address potential developmental concerns.
Final Thoughts
Tummy time might look like simple floor play, but it’s one of the most important exercises for your baby’s growth. It strengthens their body, sharpens their mind, and builds confidence in movement – all while creating special bonding moments between you and your little one.
Start early, keep it consistent, and make it fun. With a few minutes of tummy time each day, you’re helping your baby grow stronger, smarter, and more curious – one tiny push-up at a time.