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Top parenting stories this week
Tummy Time for Babies
Why it's important for your newborn to spend time on her tummy.
by: Nancy Ripton
In This Article
Tummy Time
- Tummy time prevents flattening of the head and helps with motor development.
- The best way to ensure your baby likes tummy time is to start early.
- Five minutes a few times a day is sufficient tummy time.
- Firm, comfortable surfaces will make it easier for your baby to push up when on her stomach.
ummy time is important because it prevents flattening of the head and enhances motor development. “Tummy time teaches babies to push up on their arms,” says child development expert Lora Lesak. Motor development occurs from head to toe, so if a baby is slow to develop shoulder strength, delays will trickle down to rolling, sitting and crawling.
When to start tummy time
Newborn babies don’t like doing things that are unfamiliar. And since infants need to sleep on their backs to prevent SIDS, most will be resistant if they are suddenly placed on their tummies and expected to play.
The best way to ensure your baby likes tummy time is to start early. “Begin belly time from the first day you bring baby home,” says Lesak. Five minutes a few times a day is all it takes.
