Tummy Time: a practical guide on how, when and why to introduce it to your baby

Welcome everyone! In this article we aim to provide a practical guide on how, when and why it is important to encourage your baby to spend time on their tummy. However, we feel it is important to say that every situation is unique and, if you have any doubts, you should consult your paediatrician, physiotherapist or trusted healthcare professional in order to receive information tailored specifically to your circumstances.

What is “Tummy Time”?

Tummy Time is the period during which a newborn, while awake and under constant supervision, spends time lying on their tummy.

It is the baby’s first real “gym” and represents an essential moment in their motor and cognitive development from the very first days of life.

Tummy exercises are not simply a form of entertainment, but a genuine stimulus for neurological and musculoskeletal development.

Why is it so important?

When a newborn is in the prone position, they must lift their head in order to explore their surroundings. This effort is a real workout that helps to:

1. Strengthen the muscles of the neck, shoulders and back

These muscle groups form the foundation for all the motor skills that will follow:

• head control
• rolling
• sitting independently
• crawling (commando crawling)
• crawling on hands and knees

Without a strong trunk, these milestones may be delayed or achieved with less efficient movement patterns.

2. Prevent plagiocephaly (flat head)

Spending too much time lying on the back places constant and prolonged pressure on the same area of the skull.

Tummy Time allows the skull to develop in a more symmetrical and harmonious way.

When and how should you start?

Tummy Time can be introduced from the very first days of life.

0–2 months

• A few short sessions (2–5 minutes)
• Several times a day
• For a total of around 10–15 minutes per day

3–4 months

• Gradually increase the length of each session as your baby tolerates the position
• Aim for a total of 30–45 minutes per day
• At this stage, your baby should be able to prop themselves up on their forearms and hold their head up

5+ months

• Continue to encourage longer and longer sessions

There is no need to worry if your baby does not seem to enjoy Tummy Time. It is important not to feel discouraged, to be patient and to proceed in small steps.

How can you make it more enjoyable? Practical tips

Here are some helpful suggestions to make Tummy Time as pleasant and calm as possible.

1. Skin-to-skin contact

Place your baby tummy-down on the parent’s chest while you are lying down or semi-reclined.

This form of Tummy Time is very reassuring: the contact and the parent’s scent help to calm the baby, and the effort against gravity is reduced.

2. Use of appropriate support

Place a cylindrical cushion or a feeding pillow (horseshoe-shaped) under the baby’s chest, leaving the arms free.

This slightly elevates the chest and makes it easier for the baby to lift their head.

3. Visual stimulation and interaction

Toys and mirrors

Place colourful toys or a mirror in front of your baby, slightly out of reach, to encourage them to stretch forward.

Parental interaction

The parent should position themselves on the floor at the baby’s level and interact with them.

Your smile and face are the most powerful motivation.

Tummy Time is a small but significant daily practice that greatly contributes to your baby’s harmonious development. With gradual progression, consistency and plenty of interaction, it will become a precious moment of discovery and bonding.

To find out more, book an appointment with us at Polispecialistico Paradiso!