Tummy time means placing your baby on their tummy while they are awake. It helps your baby build strong muscles so they can roll, sit and crawl.
When to start
You can start tummy time from birth.
Begin with 2 to 3 minutes at a time and build up slowly. Try to do tummy time a few times each day.
During the first 3 months aim for at least 30 minutes of tummy time spread throughout the day. Then build up to 60 minutes between 4 and 6 months.
Avoid tummy time just before or after a feed, especially if your baby has reflux.
How to do tummy time
Here are some ways to put tummy time into your baby's routine.
From birth to 3 months
You can do tummy time in different ways.
Tummy time 0 to 3 months (video)
Chest-to-chest
Place your baby on your chest while you lie back in a supported position.
On your lap
In your arms
On a mat on the floor
How play can help your baby's learning and development
From 3 months
All tummy time should be on a firm, flat mat.
As your baby gets stronger, encourage them to:
- turn their head from side to side to follow a toy
- balance on one arm and reach for a toy with their other hand
- turn their body from side to side to reach for a toy
- creep or move forward
They may stay on their tummy for 5 to 10 minutes at a time (or longer) as they get used to it.
Safety
Follow these tips.
Do
-
always stay with your baby during tummy time
-
keep your baby awake and supervise them when they are on their tummy
-
stop and try again later if your baby becomes upset
Don't
-
do not let your baby sleep on their tummy - gently roll them onto their back straight away
Remember: Back to sleep. Tummy to play.