From the moment your baby is born, each movement, sound, and smile plays a role in their growth. One of the simplest—and most important—activities you can do early on is tummy time. Recommended by pediatricians across the U.S., tummy time supports your baby’s physical and cognitive development from the very beginning.

What Is Tummy Time?

Tummy time is the practice of placing your baby on their stomach while they are awake and supervised. It helps strengthen the muscles in the neck, shoulders, arms, and back—critical for rolling over, sitting up, crawling, and eventually walking.

According to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), babies should start tummy time soon after birth, beginning with short intervals and gradually increasing in duration as they grow stronger.

Why Tummy Time Matters

Tummy time offers a host of benefits:

- Prevents flat head syndrome (positional plagiocephaly)
- Builds motor skills needed for future mobility
- Enhances sensory development through movement and interaction
- Encourages bonding with caregivers through play

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends incorporating tummy time 2–3 times a day for a few minutes each session at first, eventually working up to at least an hour per day by 3 months of age.

How to Make Tummy Time Fun

Babies often fuss during tummy time in the beginning—but it gets better with time and consistency. Here’s how to make it more enjoyable:

- Use a soft play mat or blanket
- Get down on the floor with your baby—your face is their favorite thing to look at
- Use a mirror or colorful toys to capture their attention|
- Try tummy time on your chest if floor time feels too challenging at first

For ideas and milestone tracking, explore resources from Zero to Three—a national nonprofit supporting early childhood development.

Safety Tips

- Always supervise your baby during tummy time
- Only do tummy time when baby is awake|
- Place baby on a firm, flat surface
- Stop if baby becomes too tired or upset

Final Thoughts

Tummy time may seem simple, but it’s a powerful activity for your baby's development. Just a few minutes a day can help them grow stronger, smarter, and more confident in their movement. Celebrate each wiggle and head lift—progress is happening!

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