The Tummy Time Advantage: Boosting Your Baby’s Development
As a new mom, you’ve likely heard the term “tummy time” countless times, but do you truly understand its importance? Tummy time refers to the practice of placing your baby on their stomach while they are awake and supervised. Moms learn all about tummy time in the Mommy and Me newborn class at The Southern School for Moms in Franklin. This simple yet crucial activity is essential for helping your little one develop strong neck and shoulder muscles, which are vital for milestones like crawling and sitting up. Engaging in tummy time not only promotes physical strength but also encourages sensory exploration, making it an integral part of your baby’s daily routine.
Research underscores the significance of tummy time in infant development. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, there are different methods when doing the activity. One way is to lay on your back and put your baby on their stomach. Your baby will lift their head to see your face.(American Academy of Pediatrics, 2023). Additionally, a study published by an article by Lovevery “from sensory skills to physical growth, tummy time benefits almost aspect of your baby’s development” (Lovevery 2024).
So, how can you make tummy time enjoyable for both you and your baby? Start with short sessions of just a few minutes and gradually increase the time as your baby becomes more comfortable. Use colorful toys or mirrors to capture their attention and encourage them to lift their head. Joining your baby on the floor can also make tummy time a delightful bonding experience.
Moms in the Mommy and Me Mini (0-2 months) Series in Franklin learn about tummy time during one of the weeks. Our leading local expert comes to class to help the moms learn about the importance and different methods. The expert can help show how to put your baby in the correct position and ensure you your baby is okay despite maybe not loving it in the moment. You got this mama!
References:
American Academy of Pediatrics. (2022). Tummy Time. HealthyChildren.org.
Allisongalindezloveverycom. (2024, September 12). Tummy time: When should I start and why it is important. Lovevery. https://blog.lovevery.com/skills-stages/tummy-time/