Welcoming a new addition to the family is a joyous occasion, and as parents, it's our responsibility to ensure their healthy development. Tummy time is a foundational and crucial exercise that aids in your baby's development, strengthening your baby's muscles and supporting their overall growth.
Here's everything you need to know about tummy time, including when to start, how to do it effectively, and the benefits it offers, along with some essential products to make the experience enjoyable for both you and your little one.
When to Start Tummy Time:
Tummy time can be safely started from birth. It has been found that babies who start regular tummy time early like this position more and can manage it for longer periods of time. Incorporating short sessions throughout the day to gradually build endurance and strength. Initially, aim for 3-5 minutes of tummy time two to three times a day, gradually increasing the duration as your baby grows stronger and more comfortable.
How to Do Tummy Time:
Creating a favourable environment for tummy time is essential for your baby's comfort and safety. Here's a step-by-step guide:
-
Choose a Comfortable Surface: Lying down by themselves can be daunting, make your baby feel safe by lying beside or in front of them. Make eye contact and say encouraging words to cheer your little one on. Invest in a quality playmat like Little Wiwa Play Mat. Its thick padding and non-toxic TPU foam provide a safe and soft surface for you and your baby to explore during tummy time.
Alternatively Done by Deer Activity Play Mat is another excellent option. With its quilted mat design and plush padding, it provides a cozy and supportive surface for your baby's tummy time exploration. You can layer it on top of the Little Wiwa playmat or whichever one you choose, ensuring a comfortable and safe environment is essential for your baby's enjoyment and development during tummy time.
-
Elevate with a Prop: Help your baby stay engaged and comfortable by using a pillow like the Done by Deer Tummy Time Activity Toy, Nursing Pillow, Cozy Lounger or Nest. Their firm yet soft designs elevate your baby's shoulders higher than their hips makes tummy time easier and more enjoyable. The Tummy Time Activity Toy and Nursing Pillow allow you to add toys for added stimulation. The Cozy Lounger and Nest encases your baby and creates a safe and comfy space for naps, playtime and tummy time.
-
Provide Visual Stimulation: Keep your baby entertained and engaged with high-contrast visuals and textures. TAF Toys My 1st Tummy-time Cards and the TAF Toys 3-in-1 Baby Book are excellent options that grow with your baby, supporting different developmental stages from 0 to 3 months with high contrast colour visuals and 3 months + begin exploring colours and concepts
-
Incorporate Sensory Elements: Enhance tummy time with interactive and pop-up toys curated at Little Surprise. With sensory features like rings, teething elements, mirrors, and crinkle sounds, it provides ample stimulation to keep your little one engaged and motivated
- Supervise and Interact: Always supervise your baby during tummy time and interact with them by talking, singing, or making eye contact. This not only strengthens your bond but also encourages further engagement and exploration.
Benefits of Tummy Time:
The benefits of tummy time extend far beyond physical development. Here are some key advantages:
- Strengthens Muscles: Tummy time helps strengthen your baby's neck, shoulder, arm, and back muscles, laying the foundation for crucial motor skills like crawling and sitting.
- Prevents Flat Head Syndrome: Regular tummy time reduces the risk of flat head syndrome by giving your baby's head a break from constant pressure on the back.
- Promotes Sensory Development: The varied textures, colors, and sounds during tummy time stimulate your baby's senses, fostering cognitive and sensory development.
- Encourages Bonding: Engaging in tummy time activities fosters a strong bond between you and your baby, promoting emotional security and trust.
8 Must-Have Products for Tummy Time:
-
Little Wiwa Play Mat: Award winning, luxury, eco-friendly play mat that provides a safe and comfortable surface for various activities, including tummy time.
-
Done by Deer Activity Play Mat: An exquisitely crafted play mat designed to provide a soft surface for your baby's playtime activities. A perfect blend of comfort and stimulation for your little one's tummy time development.
-
Done by Deer Tummy Time Activity Toy: An interactive toy designed to enhance tummy time with sensory features and engaging activities
-
Done by Deer Nursing & Baby Pillow: A versatile nursing pillow that elevates your baby's shoulders for a more comfortable tummy time experience
-
Done by Deer Cozy Lounger: Award winning, snug and secure lounging spot designed to cradle your baby with removable activity arch for attaching your baby's favourite toys perfect for naps, play and tummy time
-
Done by Deer Cozy Nest: An innovative nest that cocoons your baby, providing a cozy and safe space for rest, play, and tummy time exploration.
-
TAF Toys My 1st Tummy-time Cards: High-contrast visual aids that support different developmental stages and keep your baby engaged during tummy time.
-
TAF Toys 3-in-1 Baby Book: A versatile book that grows with your baby, offering visuals and sensory activities to support various developmental stages throughout their tummy time journey.
Incorporating these products into your little ones' daily tummy time routine provides a supportive and enjoyable environment for them to thrive throughout their developmental journey.