As a pediatric physical therapist, one of the most common — and important — topics I talk to new parents about is tummy time. You may have heard the term from your pediatrician, but let’s take a closer look at what tummy time really is, why it matters, and how to make it a positive part of your baby’s daily routine.
What Is Tummy Time?
Tummy time simply means placing your baby on their stomach while they’re awake and supervised. It’s a crucial activity that helps your baby develop the strength and coordination they need for rolling, crawling, sitting, and eventually walking.
Think of it as your baby’s first workout — small sessions of exercise that build the muscles of the neck, shoulders, arms, back, and core.
Why Is Tummy Time Important?
Daily tummy time is truly the key to promoting a healthy development for your baby. Research shows that a lack of tummy time can contribute to motor delays and conditions like positional plagiocephaly (flat head syndrome) and torticollis (tight neck muscles). Tummy time helps offset these risks by encouraging:
-
Head control and neck/shoulder/back strength
-
Motor skill development (like rolling and crawling)
-
Prevention of flat spots on the head
-
Sensory and visual exploration from a new perspective
In short, tummy time supports both motor milestones and healthy development.
When Should I Start Tummy Time?
Start tummy time as early as the first day home from the hospital, even if just for a few minutes at a time. Newborns can begin with 1-2 minutes on your chest a few times a day, gradually increasing the length of sessions over time and gradually practicing on the floor.
To know how much tummy time you should be doing with your baby every day, use the formula below:
# of Months x 10 Minutes
(Ex: 2 Months x 10 Minutes = 20 Minutes Per Day)
Consistency is more important than duration at first — it’s okay to do tummy time in short, frequent sessions throughout the day.
How Can I Make Tummy Time Easier (and More Fun)?
Not all babies love tummy time at first — and that’s okay. With a little creativity and patience, you can make it a more enjoyable experience:
Get down on the floor with them: Your face is your baby’s favorite toy.
Use a rolled towel or tummy time pillow under the chest for support (especially early on).
Try tummy time on your chest or lap for extra comfort and bonding.
Incorporate toys, mirrors, or high-contrast books to encourage reaching and head-turning. Check out my favorites!
Be consistent — a few minutes after each diaper change or nap is a great habit.
When doing tummy time on the floor, place baby on a firm surface (nothing with too much fluff or anything that could restrict baby’s airways). One of my favorites is the Little Surfer Dude Balance Board.
Watch the videos below to learn more about the different ways to practice tummy time with your baby.
Tummy Time Alternatives with Coco Moon Hawai‘i
Try a Tummy Time Slide with Coco Moon Hawai‘i
8 Must-Try Tummy Time Positions
What If My Baby Hates Tummy Time?
You’re not alone — many babies fuss during tummy time, especially at the start. That doesn’t mean you should skip it. Instead, try:
-
Doing tummy time when baby is calm, well-fed, and alert
-
Starting with tummy time on your chest or lap before moving to the floor
-
Offering lots of praise, singing, and/or gentle encouragement
Remember, even a little tummy time is better than none, and it will get easier over time as your baby builds strength and confidence.
When to Seek Support
If your baby:
-
Always tilts their head to one side
-
Has a flat spot on the back or side of their head
-
Seems very uncomfortable on their tummy and/or avoids using one side of the body
-
Isn't meeting motor milestones like lifting their head by 2 months or pushing up on arms by 4 months
…we recommend talking to your child’s pediatrician about a referral to pediatric physical therapy. The earlier your child enrolls, the better!
Unsure whether your baby is on-track with their milestones? Download our Free Milestone and Warning Sign Checklists to ensure your child is on-track for a healthy development.
Final Thoughts
Tummy time may seem simple, but it lays the foundation for so many critical developmental milestones. By starting early, making it part of your daily routine, and keeping it fun, you’re giving your baby a great start on their physical development journey. And if you ever need support, Three Little Ducks experts here to help guide you.
You’ve got this — one tummy time minute at a time!
A Community for Learning, Friendships, & Fun
Here at Three Little Ducks, we are creating a space where education meets community and preventative care meets play. With award-winning baby and toddler classes, pediatric physical therapy, free 'ohana yoga, and free family socials, we are an expert-led, supportive community for your family to thrive.
To stay updated on events, expert tips, and more, follow us on Instagram and subscribe to our newsletter.
