Tummy Time: Why It Matters (and How to Make It Easier)

If you’re a new parent, chances are you’ve heard the phrase “tummy time” more times than you can count.

And if your baby doesn’t love it? You might be wondering…

👉 “Am I doing this right?” 👉 “What if my baby cries?” 👉 “Is this really that important?”

As a pediatric occupational therapist—and a mom—I want to reassure you:

Tummy time doesn’t have to be perfect to be effective. Small, consistent moments truly add up 💛

🧠 Why Tummy Time Matters

Tummy time is one of the most important ways to support your baby’s early development in those first few months.

When babies spend time on their tummy, they are building the foundation for all future movement.

✨ Motor Benefits

Tummy time helps your baby:

✔ strengthen their neck muscles ✔ build shoulder and arm strength ✔ develop core stability ✔ learn to push up and eventually roll

These are the same muscles needed for:

➡️ sitting ➡️ crawling ➡️ walking

🌈 Sensory Benefits

Tummy time is also incredibly important for your baby’s sensory development.

It helps babies:

✔ develop body awareness ✔ experience new positions and movement ✔ build tolerance for different sensations ✔ strengthen their vestibular (movement) system

All of this supports your baby’s ability to feel comfortable and confident in their body.

🍼 What’s Normal (0–3 Months)

At this stage, tummy time might look like:

• lifting their head briefly
• turning their head side to side
• resting with their cheek down
• fussing after a short time

👉 And yes—some babies cry. That’s okay.

Tummy time is new and hard work, and your baby is still building strength.

💡 How to Make Tummy Time Easier

If your baby isn’t a fan, you’re not alone. Here are some simple, effective ways to help:

🤱 1. Start With Your Chest

Lay your baby on your chest while you’re reclined.

✔ they can see your face ✔ it feels safe and comforting ✔ still builds strength

This is often the best place to begin.

⏱ 2. Keep It Short + Frequent

Instead of long sessions, think:

👉 30 seconds to 1 minute 👉 multiple times a day

This feels much more manageable for your baby (and you!)

🎵 3. Get Down on Their Level

Lay on the floor facing your baby.

✔ talk ✔ sing ✔ make eye contact

Your presence is the most motivating “toy.”

🧸 4. Use Simple Props

Try placing:

✔ a rolled towel under their chest + arms ✔ a boppy pillow under their arms for support

This can make it easier for them to lift and engage.

🔄 5. Follow Their Lead

If your baby starts to fuss a little, that’s ok! If your baby starts crying:

👉 take a break 👉 try again later

Tummy time should feel challenging—but not overwhelming.

💛 A Gentle Reminder

It’s easy to feel pressure to “get it right” as a new parent.

But the truth is:

👉 You don’t need perfect tummy time 👉 You don’t need long sessions 👉 You just need consistent opportunities

Even a few minutes a day makes a difference.

🌱 The Big Picture

Tummy time isn’t just about strengthening muscles.

It’s about helping your baby:

✨ explore their body ✨ build confidence in movement ✨ develop the foundation for future skills

And you are already supporting that—just by being intentional.

💛 You’re Not Behind — You’re Building

If you ever feel unsure, overwhelmed, or just want guidance tailored to your baby…

You don’t have to figure it out alone.

I offer virtual parent coaching sessions where we walk through exactly how to support your baby’s development in a way that feels simple and doable in your daily life.

If you have questions today, I’d love to connect with you!

You can learn more or book a session here: 👉www.otskills4kids.com

Or feel free to reach out directly: 📩otskills4kids@gmail.com 📸 Instagram: @otskills4kids

You’re doing an amazing job 💛