Achieving infant tummy time is crucial for development

In 1992, in an effort to reduce the occurrence and risk of sudden infant-death syndrome, pediatricians accepted that the best practice for infants is to sleep on their backs. This practice was very successful and resulted in a 50 percent decrease in the number of sudden infant-death syndrome casualties.  

Before 1992, most babies preferred to sleep on their bellies and subsequently had the developmental benefits that arose from belly sleeping. With the shift in promoting back-sleeping, and increased use of car seats, swings and bouncers, most babies now do not spend enough time on their bellies.

Tummy time is crucial for infant development. It helps to strengthen the back and neck muscles needed for head control, rolling over, creeping and crawling. It also develops muscles needed for eating and speaking, as well as supporting the development of body and spatial awareness.

What can we do to help our babies thrive while keeping them safe?

Build in tummy time in your baby’s daily activities and routine. Many babies fuss when first put on their bellies; this does not necessarily mean they are in pain or great discomfort. Being on their belly is simply hard work.  

Just like learning any new skill, practice makes perfect. Daily tummy time will allow your infant to get used to this position, and once they are able to roll over, they may even prefer to be on their belly since it allows them to start exploring their world.

Tips to be successful with tummy time:

1. Always supervise your baby during tummy time.

2. Lay your baby on your chest or belly, so he can work on lifting his head to look at you.

3. Prop your baby’s chest and arms over a small towel roll.

4. Lay your baby on her belly over your legs to burp after feeding.

5. Place your baby on her tummy for a few minutes after each diaper change (build it into daily routine).

6. Make it fun. Get on the floor with your baby, play and stimulate him to lift his head to look around.

Babies who do not have tummy time tend to develop slower and show less motor coordination.

Child development occurs in a gradual and well-organized sequence, one skill building on another. Tummy time is a crucial building block.

For more information or questions on pediatric development, please contact Cabinet Peaks Rehabilitative Services at 283-7280.

(Els O’Rourke is a physical therapist at Cabinet Peaks Medical Center.)