Tummy Time: Why It’s Essential and How to Do It Right

For new parents, the phrase "Back to Sleep" is ingrained in every safe sleep guide—and for good reason. The Back to Sleep movement has significantly reduced the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) by encouraging babies to sleep on their backs. While this is a critical safety measure, for some babies who don’t spend time on their tummies,  it has also resulted in delays in motor development, weaker upper body strength, and conditions such as plagiocephaly (flat head) and torticollis (tight neck muscles).

A simple yet powerful way to help? Tummy Time, which strengthens your baby’s body, improves coordination, and builds the foundation for future milestones like rolling, sitting, and crawling.

Why Tummy Time Matters

Tummy Time is a foundational step in your baby’s development. Here’s why it’s important:

• Muscle Strength – Strengthens head, neck, shoulders, and core muscles, which are critical for head control and motor development.

• Coordination – Rolling, sitting, crawling, walking, and reaching.

• Engaging with their surroundings – Encourages babies to develop eye contact, turn their heads, and track sounds and sights.

• Prevent a flat head & Torticollis – Tight neck muscles can limit mobility and coordination. If the Plagiocephally becomes significant, a helmet may be necessary.

How to Do Tummy Time 

Now that we know why Tummy Time is essential for your child’s development, let’s talk about how to do it correctly (without tears!).

1. Start Early & Keep It Short

• Begin as early as the first week after birth.

• Start with short sessions (1 to 2 minutes, two to three times a day) and gradually increase.

• Tummy time should be when both parent and child are awake.

2. Try these positions, there’s no one right way

• Place the baby on a firm, flat surface (play mat, blanket, or your chest).

• Lie down face-to-face with the baby to encourage eye contact.

• For newborns, use a rolled-up towel under their chest for added support.

3. Make It Fun

• Use toys, mirrors, and bright objects to grab baby’s attention.

• Sing, talk, and make faces to encourage eye contact and interaction.

• Try skin-to-skin tummy time on your chest—it’s soothing and builds a strong bond.

4. Turning to one side

• Make sure the baby is turning their head to both sides to make sure that the muscles are not tight on one side. 

• Gently encourage the baby to look both ways using toys or gentle touch on the opposite side.

5. Increase Tummy Time as Baby Grows

• By 2 months, aim for 15 to 30 minutes total per day (broken into short sessions).

• By 4 months, the baby should be pushing up on their forearms and lifting their head confidently.

• By 6 months, the baby will start rolling and pivoting—signs that Tummy Time is working.

6. Avoid “buckets”

• Increase the amount of time your baby plays on the floor during the day and decrease the amount of time he spends in car seats, strollers, and other buckets that restrict their movement.

What If My Baby Hates Tummy Time?

Some babies resist Tummy Time at first, and that’s totally normal. Here’s how to make it easier:

• Start Small – Even 30 seconds at a time is progress. Gradually build up.

• Give yourself credit! Every 30 seconds counts.

• Try Different Surfaces – Babies sometimes dislike hard floors—try a soft mat or lying on your chest instead.

• Use a Mirror – Babies love looking at faces. A small mirror in front of them can keep them engaged.

• Add Music & Interaction – Sing, talk, and use fun sounds to distract and entertain.

• Support with a Pillow – If a baby struggles, a small rolled-up blanket or towel can help prop them up.

Signs Tummy Time is Working (Milestones To Watch For!)

• Baby lifts their head higher each week

• Baby pushes up on forearms

• Baby reaches for toys while on their belly

• Baby turns their head both directions

• Baby does not fuss in the position

If your baby struggles with head turning, has a persistent head tilt, or shows a preference for using one arm more than the other, these could be early signs of torticollis. Early intervention is key—talk to your pediatrician or a pediatric occupational therapist for an assessment.

Make Tummy Time a Habit

Tummy Time is the foundation for healthy movement, strength, and coordination. The key is to start early, make it fun, and stay consistent. By making Tummy Time a daily routine, you’re setting your baby up for stronger motor skills, better balance, and healthy development for years to come.

Need expert guidance? If you have concerns about your baby’s motor development, our pediatric occupational therapists at POTS can help. Contact us today for a consultation.