How to Train Your Baby to Do Tummy Time Safely to Support Motor Development

Has Mom ever felt anxious seeing a baby the same age as the little one on social media already doing tummy time well, while her own baby still cries often during tummy time? This feeling is very common among many parents.

Mom may have tried applying ways to train her baby to do tummy time, only to find the little one already fussy after just a few minutes. Or perhaps the baby's head still does not seem strong enough to lift, making Mom worry that something is wrong with their motor development.

On the other hand, many parents also feel confused about when tummy time is actually allowed to begin. Quite a few worry that the tummy down position might make the baby uncomfortable or even pose a risk to their safety.

In reality, tummy time is not a milestone race. Every baby develops at a different pace. Some adapt quickly to the tummy down position, while others need more time to build strength in their neck and back muscles.

What matters most is consistency, patience, and a pleasant atmosphere throughout the learning process. With the right approach, tummy time can become a beneficial and enjoyable daily activity for both Mom and the little one.

In addition, an orderly daily routine, including a comfortable feeding schedule, can also help the baby feel more ready for tummy time without excessive fussiness.

What Is Tummy Time and Why Is It Important for Babies?

Tummy time is the activity of placing a baby in a tummy down position while they are awake and under a parent's supervision. This simple activity has significant benefits because it helps train various important muscle groups that a baby needs in order to grow and develop.

Through tummy time, the little one learns to lift their head, move their neck, support their body with their arms, and prepare themselves for rolling over and crawling.

What are the benefits of tummy time for babies? Tummy time helps strengthen the neck, shoulder, arm, and back muscles that play an important role in a baby's motor development.

When can babies start tummy time? Tummy time can begin to be introduced from the time a baby is newly born, with a very short duration, and carried out gradually according to the baby's comfort.

How to Train Your Baby to Do Tummy Time Safely

Source: Magnific

• Start with a Short Duration: When applying ways to train your baby to do tummy time, start with a short duration. There is no need to go for a long time right away. Just a few minutes is already enough as an initial exercise.

• Do It When the Baby Is Calm and Full: Choose a time when the little one is comfortable, not sleepy, and not hungry. Avoid doing tummy time right after a large feeding session, as this can make the baby uncomfortable.

• Use a Comfortable and Safe Surface: Make sure the baby is on a flat, clean, and safe surface. A comfortable surface will help the little one feel more relaxed during practice.

• Engage the Baby During Tummy Time: Position Mom's face level with the little one. Give a smile, a soft voice, or a simple toy to draw their attention.

• Gradually Increase the Duration: Once the baby starts to get used to it, Mom can gradually increase the duration of tummy time according to their comfort.

Read also: Baby Fell Asleep After Feeding? Here’s How to Burp Them Without Waking Them Up

Why Do Babies Cry During Tummy Time?

• The Baby's Muscles Are Still Adapting: Tummy time is an activity that requires effort. It is natural for a baby to feel tired since their muscles are still developing.

• The Baby Is Not Yet Used to the Tummy Down Position: The tummy down position is a new experience for some babies, so they need time to adapt.

• Tummy Time Is Done While the Baby Is Sleepy or Hungry: A baby who is sleepy or hungry is usually more likely to become fussy during tummy time.

• Duration Is Too Long at the Start: Doing tummy time for too long in the early stages can make the baby frustrated and uncomfortable.

It is important to understand that crying during tummy time does not always mean the baby is unable to do it. Often, it is simply part of the adaptation process.

Signs Your Baby Is Starting to Get Comfortable with Tummy Time

Source: Magnific

Some signs that tummy time is starting to show positive results include:

• The head begins to lift higher.

• The baby is able to stay longer in the tummy down position.

• They begin to pay attention to their surroundings.

• They show interest in reaching for objects in front of them.

• They cry less often during tummy time.

Fun Activities to Make Tummy Time More Enjoyable

• Play with a Baby Mirror: Babies generally enjoy seeing the reflection of their own face in a mirror.

• Talk to the Baby: Mom's voice is one of the things the little one loves most. Use tummy time moments to chat with them.

• Use High Contrast Toys: Toys with contrasting colors can catch a baby's attention and make tummy time more engaging.

• Do Tummy Time Together as Parents: Mom or Dad can also lie down in a tummy down position in front of the baby to make the tummy time session feel more fun.

Read also: Newborn Breastfeeding Schedule: How Often Should You Feed Your Baby?

Tummy time is a small step that plays a big role in supporting the little one's motor development. Through this simple activity, a baby learns to strengthen their muscles, improve body coordination, and prepare for various important milestones ahead.

Mom does not need to rush or compare the little one's development with other babies. With a relaxed, consistent approach full of warm interaction, the baby will gradually learn to enjoy the process of tummy time.

In addition, a practical feeding routine can also help parents be more flexible in carrying out daily activities together with the little one. To support a more comfortable parenting experience, Mom can explore the various solutions from Hegen Indonesia, which offers a practical feeding system, a spill proof design, and innovations that support the baby's everyday activities, including making tummy time sessions more enjoyable.

Featured Image: Magnific