Tummy time is extremely important for babies especially since the drive to "put them on their backs to sleep". Tummy time is a short period of time each day when the baby is allowed closely supervised time, on their tummy, to play with age appropriate, baby-safe toys. The baby can be placed on a small blanket or a "Boppy" pillow for tummy time. Baby-safe, age appropriate toys are place out in front of the baby at eye level and within reach. Tummy time toys can include, but are not limited to, multisensory toys such as the following: various sounding rattles, crinkle toys, soft baby books, colorful textured links, or even baby scented toys.

Tummy time allows the baby to develop the strong neck muscles needed for them to be able to control and hold up their head on their own. It also enables the baby's head to develop into a rounded shape without flat areas which can develop from spending so much time on their backs. The baby additionally benefits by beginning to develop good hand-eye coordination and grasping skills as they reach and grasp the toys which are placed in front of them. Tummy time provides a natural means for the caregiver to verbally communicate and interact with the baby about the toys being used during the session of play. The caregiver can begin introducing the baby to vocabulary even at this early stage. The caregiver can name the toys, describe the toys or simply make different sounds for the toys. Babies love to hear the human voice and expression. Most importantly...have fun!

Tummy time is one of your baby's first introductions to play, and play is a very important part of  learning. Please take time to play with your baby every day!