Tummy Time Questions & Answers

When should I get started with tummy time?

Right away! The sooner you get started, the more accustomed baby will become to the position. Start off with just a few minutes 2-3 times each day during the first month, slowly extending tummy time until your reach a whole hour by the time baby is 3-months-old. Try to catch baby in a rested, good mood – after a diaper change or a nap is always a good bet – it’ll make tummy time more effective and enjoyable.

What makes it so difficult for babies to lift their heads?

Babies are born with relatively large, heavy heads for their bodies and with limp neck and back muscles – this is what enables them to lie curled up in the womb. Consequently, newborns find it difficult to hold their heads alone and need support. When they lie on their tummies, it takes a great deal of effort for them to overcome the force of gravity and lift their heads up. At about 2-months, babies begin to enjoy more control over their head and necks movement and need more practice to master this ability and continue to the next stage or motor development.