Why is Tummy Time Important?
Muscle Development: Tummy time helps in developing the muscles needed for future milestones like crawling, sitting, and walking. It strengthens the neck, back, and shoulder muscles, promoting better head control and upper body strength.
Prevents Flat Head Syndrome: Regular floor acitivities reduces the risk of positional plagiocephaly, commonly known as flat head syndrome, which can occur when babies spend too much time lying on their backs.
Sensory Development: Being on their belly allows babies to experience different textures and sensations, contributing to their sensory development. A baby play gym or a baby mat for floor can enhance this experience with various textures, colors, and toys.
Visual and Motor Skills: Being on the belly or on their side encourages babies to lift their heads and look around, which enhances their visual tracking and motor skills. A play mat for babies, equipped with engaging elements, can make tummy time more enjoyable and stimulating.
How to Make Tummy Time Fun and Effective
- Use a Play Mat or Foam Play Mat: Investing in a good quality baby play mat or foam play mat for baby can make tummy time more comfortable and fun. Look for mats with bright colors, different textures, and attached toys to keep your baby engaged.
Start Slow: Begin with a few minutes on thier several times a day and gradually increase the duration as your baby becomes more comfortable.
Engage with Your Baby: Get down on the floor with your baby, make eye contact, and talk or sing to them. Use a baby activity center or a baby play gym to add interactive elements to tummy time.
Incorporate Toys: Place toys just out of your baby’s reach to encourage them to stretch and move. Baby gyms & playmats often come with hanging toys that can captivate your baby’s attention and motivate them to reach and grasp.
Create a Safe Space: Ensure the area is safe and free from hazards.
Tummy Time Tips for Different Ages
0-3 Months: At this stage, belly time sessions should be short, around 1-2 minutes, but frequent. With a mat or a soft blanket and lie down with your baby to encourage them.
3-6 Months: As your baby grows, they will start to push up on their arms and may even begin to roll. Ensure that the sorrounding is safe for the baby and free from small items that can be accidentally swallowed.
6-12 Months: Your baby might start to crawl and sit up. Use a baby playmat with various textures and interactive elements to keep them motivated and active.
P.S. If you're loving these tips on tummy time and early development, you might also enjoy this blog post that really helped me (and so many parents) understand what to expect during each stage. 💛 It’s a comforting guide that walks you through your baby’s milestones by month—a wonderful way to feel prepared and connected through your baby’s first year.
👉 Take a peek here
Essential Products for Tummy Time
🧸 1. Soft & Supportive Baby Play Mat
Why it’s essential: A cushioned, non-toxic surface provides a safe and comfy space for your baby to lie on their tummy. It reduces pressure on the elbows and knees while encouraging movement.
Look for: A thick, easy-to-clean mat like Abbys Nest Baby Play Mat.
Why it’s essential: Engaging toys encourage babies to lift their heads and reach out, which strengthens muscles and hand-eye coordination.
Examples: High-contrast crinkle toys, mirrors, textured rattles, and plush animals.
👶 3. Tummy Time Pillow or Roll
Why it’s essential: Helps support early tummy time sessions when baby is still building core strength. It props the chest slightly, making it easier to look up and around.
Tip: Choose one with detachable toys or textures for added engagement.
Why it’s essential: Babies are fascinated by faces, especially their own! A floor mirror encourages head lifting and visual tracking.
Bonus: Great tool for visual stimulation and self-awareness development.
Why it’s essential: Gentle music or sounds can make tummy time more pleasant, especially if your baby is fussy or resistant.
Best feature: Helps soothe and hold attention longer during sessions.
🧼 6. Waterproof and Foldable Playmat (for portability)
Why it’s essential: Sometimes tummy time happens on the go. A foldable mat can turn any surface into a tummy time space when you’re visiting family or in the park.
🌿 7. Non-Toxic Wipes (for cleanup)
Why it’s essential: Babies drool or spit up during tummy time—it’s just part of the fun! Keep wipes handy to keep baby clean and comfortable.
Include tummy time in your baby's daily routine to enhance their physical and sensory development. Make tummy time joyful and growth-filled with the ABBYS NEST BABY PLAY MAT and a few playful toys by baby’s side! Remember, every baby develops at their own pace, so be patient and make tummy time a fun and positive experience for both you and your baby.