Most parents are aware that “tummy time” is important for babies but maybe you aren’t sure exactly what this means or how to do it? This often results in parents putting a newborn on their tummy, finding that they don’t like it, and being stressed about either a) not doing enough tummy time, or b) trying to continue to do it when their baby doesn’t seem to be enjoying it.

What is tummy time and why is it important?

Tummy time is a common name given to time when a baby is placed on their stomach on the floor. Depending on their age they might push up on their forearms or hands, lift their head, or eventually, push up onto their hands and knees. The aim of this activity is to help your baby to develop strength in their neck and back muscles which are important for motor development and help to lead to exciting milestones like rolling and crawling. Encouraging plenty of tummy time also helps to decrease any flat spots that may be developing on your baby’s head (you can read more that here).

Here at Eureka Osteo we would like to shift your focus from purely “tummy time”, to anything other than “back time!”. Lots of our babies spend long periods on their back (to sleep, in the car, in the pram etc), and don’t get enough time during the day to stretch out, learn to use their limbs, develop their awareness of their body in space and to experience a wide range of positions. We like to encourage parents to think about their baby experiencing a wide variety of positions and sensory experiences every day. This might include traditional tummy time on the floor, but also side-lying time, tummy time on the chest or in the lap of a caregiver and baby-wearing.

“What are some strategies I can try with a newborn?”

• When putting your baby on their tummy on a mat or the floor, give them some toys to look at - a musical toy might keep them entertained

• Limit time in “containers” like capsules, prams, bumbos, bouncers

• Get down on the floor at eye level with your baby and engage with them

• Vary the positions that you carry your baby so that they gradually get used to holding their head up (check our instagram for some helpful videos)

• Some babies prefer to have their chest elevated - try a rolled up towel, small pillow, or place your bub over your leg

• Keep floor time short and watch for your babies’ cues to show that they’re done

• Baby wearing, play time in your lap or on your chest are all great strategies too

If you feel like your baby isn’t enjoying being in certain positions, has a preference for neck movement in one direction, or you need some guidance on individualised strategies for your family, book an appointment with Megan, Anthony, Ginger or Andrew here.