Tummy Time Activities For Infants

It is important to make sure to include tummy time activities for infants in your daily routine. Because we have to put our babies to sleep on their backs, they end up on their backs a lot.

What are tummy time activities for infants? Essentially, all you need to do is place your baby on their tummy! Lay out a blanket on the floor and place your baby on her tummy, placing her head to one side. You can lay down beside her or put a toy in her line of vision.

My babies hated tummy time so I have to admit, I didn't do it all that often. (What's that expression... "Do what I say, not as I do"? -grin-) But they say that if you gradually increase your infant's tummy time, they will get used to it and like it more and more.

Tummy time activities for infants allows babies to develop head control and the upper body strength needed to crawl. Experts say that babies who are not given enough tummy time are speding far too much time lying on their backs, and can get "flat head syndrome", weakened neck and arm muscles, and they are slower to roll over and crawl. Oh, I guess I should have spent more time on this with my babies! Oh well, they turned out fine... heh heh

Here are some tips to promote tummy time:

1. Lie on your back with your baby lying on your chest. Once she gets used to the idea, you can gradually get her to try it on the floor.

2. Practice tummy time when your baby has been fed and is not tired and/or cranky.

3. Lie beside your baby with your face up close and talk or sing to her.

4. As your baby gets stronger, place toys or stuffed animals in front of her, or just outside of her reach, to encourage her to support herself and reach for them.

5. Lastly, make sure you do not leave your baby unsupervised while practising tummy time activities.

Remember that babies always have to sleep on their backs. But when they're awake, enjoy your tummy time with your baby!