Our cutie pies, how have you been? Are you enjoying your tummy time? Did you just giggle and raise your little eyebrow? Do you find your tummy time fun? But do you know that this tummy time is more than just a fun activity for you? Hmm, let’s have a conversation! Shall we, dear parents? New parents, let’s talk about tummy time! Oh, you already have heard about it? So, what exactly the tummy time is, and why is it so important for your little one’s development? Don’t worry, Littloo is here to break it down and explain the benefits of tummy time layer by layer.
Giving your babies tummy time is of utmost importance as it plays a significant role in their development. But you have to do it while they are awake. Why? Because when they are awake, they will get the tummy time as a part of their exercise. This tummy time builds strength, improves motor skills, and also enhances cognitive development. All these things altogether, how? Let us explore this together so you can make the tummy time perfect for your babies!
So, What’s in The Tummy Time?
Littloo parents, tummy time is the magical time for your baby. What are the benefits of tummy time? It is the practice that strengthens their muscles. Take it as a baby yoga activity to build the muscles around the neck, shoulders, arms, and also, stomach. But before we fully fledgedly leave them on their own, we must take a few precautions in the beginning. Initially, we are not leaving them there for hours on end, but rather choosing short, frequent sessions throughout the day. Think of it as a mini-workout for your baby!
Do you know, parents that tummy time is as essential as their nap time? How? Let’s explore!
Let’s Explore The Benefits of Tummy Time!
Tummy time benefits your baby in many ways. When you include tummy time in your baby’s daily routine, you can notice many developmental changes swiftly. Ready to discover? Let’s begin!
Read More: The Benefits of Using a Tummy Roll-On For Colic Relief
Muscle Strengthening & Preventing Flat Spots:
If your baby has flat spots on its head, tummy time can prevent those from happening. We are talking about positional plagiocephaly which usually occurs when babies spend too much time on their backs. The frequent rolling over from tummy time will smoothen and will shape their head to be more round. But it is not the only benefit. Let us move ahead to know more!
Motor Skills Development:
The benefits of tummy time are ample, and one of its benefits is motor skill development. Giving tummy time to your babies will also help them to develop and enhance their motor skills. Tummy time boosts up movements like pushing up, rolling over, and sitting up. This way your baby will become more mobile and independent. Once they become used to tummy time, they won’t need your continuous supervision.
Tummy Time Enhances Cognitive Development:
Littloo parents, another trivia for you! Believe it or not, tummy time can enhance your baby’s cognitive functions. You might be wondering how? Parents, tummy time will help your baby to learn new perspectives and sensations. Thus, it automatically stimulates cognitive growth and awareness of their surroundings.
Sensory Development:
This is also one of the benefits of tummy time. When our cutie pies change their position, they experience different sensations than usual. Tummy time will help them to develop their vestibular system. What is it? Dear mum, it will help them with balance and coordination.
Ready? Now Let’s Begin With Tummy Time!
Mum, are you worrying about when to start the tummy time? Littloo says when Begin tummy time when your baby is about two weeks old, you can start tummy time sessions. Why sessions? It will be a time span of 30 seconds first. Parents, we must start with short sessions and then you can leave them up to one minute. Also, let us do this two to three times a day. Wait, Dad has already laid out the baby’s playmat. Exciting time, isn’t it? But on a play mat? It’s a big no. Your babies are tender thus you must place them on your chest or lap for these initial sessions. Once they get older up to 3-4 months, you can use cozy playmats.
Now, what’s next? Well, when your baby becomes more comfortable, you can increase the duration of tummy time and your baby will get all the benefits of tummy time. Once they reach the age of two months, aim for three to five minutes per session, and by six months, your baby should be able to spend up to 20 minutes on their tummy.
Read more: TIPS ON HOW TO FEED YOUR BABY FROM 1-2 YEARS
Let’s Make it Cheerful Time For Baby!
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Gather all the interesting soft stuff toys and let’s place them ahead of them. (Once they are older- 2 months onwards)
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You can also place mirrors at a distance, so it feels like they are interacting with another baby.
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This will encourage your baby to lift their head and move towards them.
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Let’s clear all the clutter and make a safe space for the baby.
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Let’s motivate them with our little talk, sing, or make eye contact to make them happy!
A Little Care Note From Littloo!
We are aware that you are eager to start the tummy time sessions for your little ones. But before we do that, Littloo must include a care note for you before saying goodbye. Parents, always safeguard your baby and let’s not leave them unattended even for a second. Let’s stay with the baby during tummy time to ensure their safety. Also, it is important to remember that you must avoid tummy time immediately after the feed. Instead, wait for 20 minutes or more to prevent vomiting and spitting up. Now, we are all set to explore the benefits of tummy time! Let us be consistent and add these tummy time sessions into the baby’s daily routine. Also, remember to make it as playful as possible so they won’t get stressed.
Now you are all set! Littloo wishes our cuddles a happy tummy time!