Many babies dislike tummy time at first, because it is hard for them to move in that position while they don’t have good head control. However, more frequent tummy time will typically lead to quick development of adequate head control, leading to a much more pleasant tummy time experience faster! In the meantime, here are a few tips and tricks:
- Hold your baby on your chest while reclined whenever possible; the close physical contact and ability to look at your face will likely increase tolerance for this position.
- If your baby has reflux, avoid tummy time right after meals; try to wait 30 minutes to an hour after feeding to avoid pressure on the stomach that can aggravate reflux symptoms.
- Carry your baby from room to room positioned on their tummy over your arms, or burp your baby face down on your lap; both count as “tummy time” because the baby has to work against gravity to
lift their head. - Engage your baby face to face for tummy time if possible, meaning get on the floor with your baby or
do tummy time on an elevated surface so it is easier for both of you to have eye contact. Babies love faces! - Try tummy time over an exercise ball; many babies love the addition of bouncing and rocking.
- For tummy time on the floor, place a mirror or interesting toys to the sides of the baby; it is often too hard at first if you place objects directly in front of them, but most babies can hold their head up better with their necks turned to look at something placed at their side when first gaining control.
Check out these helpful tummy time videos provided by pathways.org.