Ah, tummy time—the exercise that sounds simple but can feel like trying to convince your baby to do mini push-ups. You’re not alone if you’re worried about when to start, how to make it work, or if your little one will ever actually enjoy it.
I’m
Kristin, a postpartum doula, and I’ve spent years helping parents ease their babies into tummy time without tears (or at least fewer tears). I know it can feel intimidating—especially when every book, blog, and well-meaning friend tells you it’s essential but doesn’t explain how to make it enjoyable.
The good news? Tummy time doesn’t have to be a battle. Here’s everything you need to know to make it fun, safe, and—dare I say—easy for both you and your baby.
Download my Free Guide to learn how to read your baby's cues and create a flexible routine.
So, let’s explore tummy time tips that’ll help your baby build strength without drama and might even let you both enjoy a few giggles along the way.
As a new parent, you may have heard about tummy time, but might not be sure when or how to start. Rest assured, tummy time is a gentle and simple way to support your baby’s development. It helps build neck, shoulder, and core strength, and can also reduce the chance of flat spots on the head (positional plagiocephaly) by giving babies a break from lying on their back. Plus, it often makes feeding easier by improving head and neck control and can ease tightness in the neck and shoulders through gentle stretching.
In this post, I'll show you exactly when and how to introduce tummy time to your baby step by step, so you can feel confident and relaxed while helping your little one thrive.
Why Tummy Time Matters
- Builds Strength: Placing your baby on their stomach for short, supervised periods helps develop neck, shoulder, and core muscles—essential for rolling, sitting, and eventually crawling.
- Prevents Flat Spots: Too much time on the back can lead to positional plagiocephaly (flat spots on the head). Tummy time helps shift that pressure.
- Improves Feeding: With better head and neck control, babies often find it easier to latch and feed from the breast or bottle.
- Eases Tightness: Being on their tummy encourages gentle stretching, which can relieve tightness in the neck and shoulders.
- Encourages Exploration: Tummy time provides a new vantage point, helping babies develop visual tracking skills and overall motor coordination.
When to Start Tummy Time
- Newborn Stage (0–1 Month): You can begin as soon as you bring your baby home, with
1–2 minutes of tummy time 2–3 times a day. Laying your baby on your chest while you recline is a great start—it’s comforting and helps them get used to the position.
- 1–3 Months: Gradually increase to
10–15 minutes per day (in short sessions). Your baby will begin lifting and turning their head from side to side.
- 3–6 Months: Many babies start pushing up with their arms and rolling over. Aim for
30–60 minutes of total tummy time per day, divided into smaller sessions.
Remember, every baby is different. Some will love tummy time right away, while others need more encouragement.
Don’t stress if it takes a while for your little one to warm up to it—short, frequent sessions can really help.
Does your baby fuss or cry during tummy time? That can be completely normal in those first few weeks for a number of reasons.
Download my Free Guide to learn your baby's cues and create a flexible routine that works for you.
How to Make Tummy Time Fun and Safe
Tummy time doesn’t have to be a chore. With the right approach, it can become an enjoyable bonding experience for both you and your baby. Here are some tips for a positive tummy time experience:
Always Supervise
Keep a close eye on your baby during tummy time. Stay within arm’s reach to make sure they’re comfortable and safe.
Here are some great places to do tummy time, providing variety and engaging your baby in this important activity:
1. On the Floor
• Use a Blanket or Mat: Place a soft, clean blanket or a baby play mat on the floor. This is a safe and stable surface for tummy time.
• Tummy Time Pillow: A small, firm pillow or rolled towel can support your baby under their chest for added comfort, especially for younger infants.
2. On Your Chest
• Lay back comfortably and place your baby on your chest, tummy down, so they can lift their head to see your face. This is a soothing and bonding way to do tummy time.
3. On the Couch or Bed
•
Supervised Only: Place your baby on their tummy on
a firm section
of the bed or couch. Sit directly in front of them to ensure safety and engagement.
• This elevated position can give them a new perspective, making tummy time more interesting.
4. On Your Lap
• Sit with your legs together and place your baby across your lap, tummy down. Gently rub their back or sing to them for comfort.
5. In Front of a Mirror
• Place your baby on a mat or blanket in front of a shatterproof floor mirror. Babies love looking at their reflections, which can make tummy time more fun and motivating.
6. Outdoors
• On a warm day, use a blanket in the yard or at the park. The sights and sounds of nature can make tummy time more engaging.
7. During Playtime
• Incorporate tummy time into play by using toys, books, or sensory objects placed in front of your baby to encourage reaching and head lifting.
8. With an Activity Gym
• Use a baby gym with hanging toys that your baby can see and reach for while on their tummy. This encourages motor skill development.
9. On a Yoga Ball (For older babies, typically 3-4 months old with good head and neck control)
• Gently place your baby on their tummy on a yoga ball while holding them securely. Roll the ball slightly to encourage head and neck movement.
Switching up the location can keep tummy time interesting for your baby and help them adjust to different environments while building strength and skills. Always ensure supervision and a safe surface!
Use Props
- Rolled-up towel, Boppy pillow, or other tummy time pillow: Place it under your baby’s chest to provide support and make lifting their head a bit easier, especially for young babies.
- Toys & Mirrors: A baby-safe mirror or colorful toys within reach can grab their attention and encourage them to look around.
Time it Right
Try tummy time when your baby is awake, alert, and has clean diaper-avoid times when they are hungry or overly tired. Follow their lead- If your baby seems tired or is upset, pick them up for a cuddle and try again later when they’re more alert or content. Short, frequent sessions often work better than one long session.
Get Down on Their Level
Babies love seeing your face. Lie down in front of them or position yourself so you can sing, make silly faces, or chat. This interaction can make tummy time more enjoyable for both of you.
Try Different Surfaces
A soft blanket on the floor, a playmat, or even your lap—variety can make tummy time more interesting. Each new surface offers a fresh sensory experience.
Use Gentle Position Changes
- Start on Their Back: Before going straight to tummy time, lay your very young baby on their back with their head in a midline position. Show them a toy or let them track a contrasting object for a few moments.
- Roll to the Side: Gently roll your baby onto one side, letting them adjust to the change in position.
- Transition to Tummy: From the side, slowly roll them onto their stomach. This approach is often gentler than placing them directly on their tummy and can help them feel more secure.
- Benefits of Rolling: Rolling from back to side to tummy helps develop trunk rotation and body awareness. It’s also a great way to encourage visual tracking, as your baby follows the toy or your face during the transition.
By incorporating these simple steps and being mindful of your baby’s comfort level, you can make tummy time a positive, stress-free part of your daily routine.
Be Patient
It’s normal for newborns to fuss or seem uncomfortable during tummy time at first. With gentle persistence and short, frequent sessions, most babies gradually learn to enjoy it. Remember, this is one of the first of many moments when your baby will need to work through discomfort to master an important skill. As you offer your encouragement and compassion, you’re not only helping your baby build physical strength but also showing them that they’re supported through challenges—a foundation that will guide them throughout life.
Stay Flexible
If your baby is especially fussy, pick them up and try again later. Short, successful sessions build more confidence than longer, stressful ones.
Signs of Progress
- Lifting Head Longer: As your baby gains strength, they’ll hold their head up for extended periods.
- Pushing Up on Arms: By around 3–4 months, many babies start pushing up on their forearms, building upper body strength.
- Rolling Over: Tummy time lays the groundwork for rolling from tummy to back and eventually from back to tummy.
Every baby develops at their own pace, so don’t be alarmed if yours takes a bit longer or hits these milestones sooner than expected. If you ever have concerns,
reach out to your pediatrician for guidance.
When to Seek Professional Guidance
- If your baby consistently resists tummy time despite gentle, gradual practice, or shows signs of pain or discomfort.
- If you notice persistent flat spots on their head or suspect tightness in their neck (such as torticollis).
- If you have concerns about their motor development (e.g., difficulty lifting their head after a few months).
- If your baby is also experiencing feeding issues that may be related to muscle tightness or poor head and neck control.
In these cases, you may want to consult a
pediatrician,
pediatric occupational therapist (OT),
pediatric physical therapist (PT),
feeding specialist, or
IBCLC (International Board Certified Lactation Consultant). Additionally,
bodywork—such as
chiropractic care or
craniosacral therapy—can sometimes help address tightness and contribute to the correction or prevention of flattening of the head.
Tummy time is more than just building physical strength—it’s a meaningful way to connect with your baby, support their overall development, and lay the foundation for essential milestones. With a little patience and creativity, tummy time can become a sweet bonding experience that nurtures your baby’s growth and confidence from day one. Remember, it doesn’t have to be a battle—you’ve got this!
If you’re ready for more personalized support or have questions about newborn care, I’m here to help. As a postpartum doula, my goal is to empower you and your baby to thrive—minus the overwhelm.
Visit my website at
www.westernctdoula.com
to learn more or schedule a consultation. Let’s navigate this special time together!
Download my
Free Guide: "Overwhelmed to Empowered - Understanding Your Baby's Cues & Creating a Flexible Routine."
