How to Make Newborn Tummy Time Fun and Effective

Tummy time is an adorably named activity that many babies may find less than thrilling (at least at first). Imagine you and your little one both shedding a few tears as a few minutes on their belly seem to stretch into eternity. But hold on! Despite the drama, newborn tummy time is crucial to your baby's development. So, come along with us as we turn those frowns upside down! This blog is the ultimate guide to tummy time, packed with tips and activities to make it fun for both baby and you. Trust us, spending five minutes to master tummy time will be worth it!

Key Preparations Before Starting Newborn Baby Tummy Time

Before we get into the nitty gritty of baby tummy time, these tips will help you set the stage for the same:

• Transform a section of your floor into a comfy infant tummy time zone! Use a soft blanket or a plush play mat to ensure your little one is cushioned and comfortable.
• Timing is everything! Choose a moment when your baby is well-rested and content, perhaps after a nap or a feeding (but not right after to avoid spit-up surprises). A happy baby is more likely to enjoy tummy time.
• Get down on the floor with your baby to make tummy time a bonding moment. Face-to-face interaction can turn this developmental activity into a fun game. Sing songs or rhymes and encourage your little one with smiles and coos!
• Use colourful, baby-safe toys to capture your baby's attention. Rattles, mirrors, and soft books can make tummy time more intriguing. Place these toys just out of reach to encourage your baby to stretch and reach, boosting their development.
• Begin with just a few minutes at a time. Gradually increase the duration as your baby gets more comfortable. Celebrate small victories with lots of praise, claps and cuddles!

Also Read: Digestive discomfort in Children

4 Engaging Fun Activities for Newborn Babies During Tummy Time

You can check out these activities to make baby tummy time fun, exciting, and playful:

Chest To Chest

Cuddle up with your newborn by relaxing against some comfy pillows with your baby snuggled on your chest. This delightful bonding time counts as tummy time in the early days! Just make sure your upper body is at a 45-degree angle. Take our word for it; this is a perfect way to get to know your little one!

Use Props

When your baby hits the two—or three-week mark, it's time to take tummy time to the floor! Use a nursing pillow or a rolled-up blanket at a 30—to 45-degree angle to support their chest. This helps them move their arms forward to start bracing themselves. As they grow stronger, switch to smaller props like a muslin swaddle.

Rock And Roll

Bring out your exercise ball and place your baby tummy down on top. Keep a firm hand on them to prevent slipping, and gently roll the ball backwards, forward, and side to side, and even add a little bounce.

This fun activity helps your baby develop proprioception (awareness of body position relative to their environment). You can start this activity shortly after birth. However, you must make sure that you stay close to your baby at all times.

Go For A Stroll Around

Try the football hold as your baby improves at holding their head up. Cradle your baby tummy down in your arms and walk around your home, describing what you see. This helps them learn about their environment and can be turned into a fun game of "flying."

Also Read: Natural remedies to cure colic in babies

Benefits Of Tummy Time

Here are some noteworthy benefits that will encourage you to motivate your baby for tummy time!

Boosts Muscle Power

Think of tummy time as your baby’s first workout session! When babies are on their tummies, they build neck, shoulder, and arm muscles. These mini push-ups help them strengthen, preparing them for exciting milestones like rolling over, crawling, and walking.

Helps In Preventing Flat Spots In Baby’s Head

Heads up! Tummy time is crucial for preventing flat spots on your baby’s head. Since babies spend so much time on their backs, giving them time on their tummy helps even the pressure on their skulls.

Boosts Motor Skills

During tummy time, your baby explores the world from a whole new angle. This helps improve their motor skills as they reach, grasp, and wiggle. These tiny movements are big steps towards developing their hand-eye coordination and fine motor skills.

It Promotes Sensory Development

Tummy time is a sensory adventure! As your baby looks around, touches different textures, and hears your voice encouraging them, they're experiencing a rich sensory environment. This helps their brain process and respond to new stimuli, enhancing their cognitive and sensory development. You can check out shankpushpi syrup at Baby Organo to boost your kid’s memory.

Safety Measures to Consider During Newborn Baby Tummy Time

No matter what tummy time activity you plan to engage in, you must be very careful of these things:

Always Supervise Constantly

Always keep a watchful eye on your baby during tummy time. Stay close to ensure their safety and provide immediate comfort if they get distressed.

Use a Soft Surface

To protect your baby's delicate skin, ensure tummy time takes place on a soft, clean surface like a padded mat, blanket, or carpet.

Start Slow

Begin with short sessions gradually increasing the duration as your baby gets more comfortable and stronger.

With the tips and precautions mentioned above, Tummy time is bound to become a cherished part of your baby’s routine! From boosting muscle power to enhancing sensory development, tummy time is your baby’s first step towards a world of fun and learning.

So, roll out those soft mats, grab some colorful toys, and dive into this delightful bonding experience. Each minute spent on tummy time is a leap towards their next significant milestone.

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FAQ on Newborn Tummy Time

1. Why is a baby lazy during tummy time?

Babies might seem lazy during tummy time because it's hard work! Holding up their head and moving their limbs requires a lot of effort, and it is completely normal for them to get tired at first.

2. When should I stop tummy time for my baby?

You can continue tummy time till your little one learns to sit up or roll over independently.

3. When to start tummy time for a newborn?

You can start tummy time as soon as your baby comes home from the hospital. Aim for a few minutes, two to three times daily, gradually increasing the duration as your baby grows stronger.

4. Do you need a pillow for tummy time?

Using a pillow, such as a nursing pillow or a rolled-up blanket, can be very helpful, especially in the early stages of tummy time. It elevates your baby’s chest slightly, making it easier for them to lift their head and look around.