Tummy Time for Babies: Fun Activities to Build Strength

Babies need to spend time on their tummies as it helps strengthen muscles in their neck, shoulders, and back - crucial for milestones like rolling over, sitting up, and crawling. Read more about the benefits of tummy time for babies. 

But let’s be real: many babies dislike tummy-time at first. Being on their stomachs is not natural for them, making it frustrating and uncomfortable.

To make tummy time enjoyable, parents and caregivers can employ plenty of creative and engaging strategies. Here’s a short guide involving certain activities that might influence tummy time activities for your baby.

What Are the Best Tummy Time Positions for Newborns?

Babies may not love resting on a flat surface straight away, but your presence can make it more comforting and personal. Let’s have a look at such positions briefly.

Tummy-to-Tummy:

After your baby reaches two months or more, lie on your back and place your baby on your chest, tummy-side down, with their little face looking towards yours. Besides helping them practice raising their head, this creates a unique bonding moment as they try to gaze up at you.

Lap Support:

Once your baby reached the age of 6 months or above, lay your infant tummy-side down over your thighs while seated with your legs together. Support their head and neck gently with your hands if necessary. This position slightly elevates their posture giving them a better view and making tummy time less intimidating. To further relax them, gently bounce their back with your legs or stroke their back.
 

How Can You Make Tummy Time Fun for Your Baby?

Tummy time shouldn’t seem like a task; it can be a fun and interesting experience for you and your child. Besides, babies are more likely to enjoy tummy time when it feels like play (shown in the infographic).¹

To make it fun, introduce textured mats, crinkly toys, or soft objects for the baby to explore. These sensory elements encourage tactile stimulation and make tummy time more engaging.
Use some props for support after two months of age, especially for younger babies who are just getting started, such as:

• Tummy Time Pillows: Specially made tummy time pillows gently raise your baby's chest so that they can comfortably raise their head
• Rolled Towels: Place a rolled towel under their chest and arms for extra support. This little elevation helps them feel more relaxed as they adjust to this posture²
   

What Are Pediatrician-Recommended Tummy Time Tips?

You can try these tips after your baby reaches two months of age, as recommended by the pediatrician:³
 

• Spread a blanket across a clear space on the floor.
• Roll up a towel and put it under the baby's arms to help them stand up a little.
• After changing the baby's diaper or taking a nap, try short sessions.
• Putting a toy close to the baby will help them learn to play and connect with their surroundings.
• Have a trusted adult sit in front of the baby to get them acquainted and bond.

How Does Massage Help During Tummy Time?

Before or during tummy time, gently massage the baby’s back, arms, and legs. This simple step can relax their muscles, reduce fussiness, and make tummy time feel more soothing. By making tummy time a positive and interactive experience, babies are more likely to enjoy it and benefit from the developmental advantages it provides. Most importantly, patience and consistency are key, and over time, they’ll become more comfortable and even look forward to tummy time sessions!