The Importance of Tummy Time for Your Baby

04 May 2023

Tummy time is a crucial activity for infants to aid in their physical and cognitive development. 

Strengthens Muscles: Tummy time helps develop the muscles that are necessary for head control, crawling, and eventually standing and walking. Infants need to use their arms and neck muscles to lift their heads while on their stomachs, which strengthens their muscles and prepares them for future developmental milestones.

Improves Motor Skills: Tummy time can help babies develop motor skills such as reaching and grasping. As infants push up with their arms and legs, they learn how to coordinate their movements and reach for objects in front of them.

Prevents Flat Head Syndrome: Infants who spend too much time on their backs are at risk of developing a flat spot on the back of their head, known as flat head syndrome. Tummy time helps prevent this condition by reducing the amount of time that infants spend lying on their backs.

Enhances Sensory Development: Tummy time exposes infants to different textures and surfaces, which can help enhance their sensory development. The pressure on the front of the body during tummy time can also stimulate the vestibular system, which is responsible for balance and spatial orientation.

Supports Brain Development: Tummy time encourages babies to explore their surroundings, which can help stimulate their cognitive development. As infants lift their heads and look around, they are developing their visual and spatial awareness.

In conclusion, tummy time is a vital activity for infants to help with their physical, cognitive, and sensory development.