Tuesday, April 3, 2012

THE IMPORTANCE OF TUMMY TIME FOR BABIES



Tummy time is crucial for a baby's proper development.  It stretches and strengthens neck and back muscles that help a baby crawl, sit, stand, and walk.  Babies who spend most of their time on their back or sitting up usually walk later and can develop flat spots on the back of their heads.

My own baby hated traditional tummy time, that is when I placed her flat on the floor with nothing.  She would cry incessantly and I would give up and pick her up after a minute or so.  I later learned from therapy that I can carry my baby in certain positions that qualify as tummy time and strengthen the same muscles the traditional position does.

Please read my blog for several exercises that every mom and dad can easily do at home with their baby.  I had varied success with different positions and your baby might like certain positions more than others.