Tummy Time
Thankfully, tummy time is a relatively well-known practice that we are pretty certain any good pediatrician will recommend these days. For those of you who may not have heard of it before, or who may not know why you are doing it, then here is some information you need to know about it.
We know you would probably hold your baby and stare at him/her all day if you could, but we are here to remind you how important it is for your baby to spend some time on its tummy. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends starting with tummy time as early as the first day you come home from the hospital with your Babba. The reason for this is because it helps develop those little back, neck and arm muscles. It also keeps the head from developing flat spots. Since a baby’s head is so malleable, having it on its back for long periods of time, may cause some flattening of the head, which you want to avoid.
The AAP recommends implementing tummy time 2-3 times a day, starting with 3-5 minute increments, and slowly increasing the time as the baby grows older and gets used to it. He/she may not like it in the beginning, but just know how critical it is for development. As your baby grows, they will need more time, and will start to move more. Before you know it, that Babba will be on the loose!
*Please consult your doctor to see what he/she recommends for your baby individually with regard to tummy time.
Tips for Successful Tummy Time
A good time to do tummy time, according to the AAP, is after a diaper change or after your baby wakes up from a nap.
Make sure to keep a close eye on your baby while he/she is in tummy time
Put out some fun toys to keep your baby entertained. Plus they can work on reaching for them when they get to that stage.
Lay out a gorgeous play mat to get your Babba off to a good start!
*Here are some pretty and effective products that you can feel good using for your baby’s tummy time. Your baby will love them…plus they won’t make your house look like a rainbow tornado.
