As a new parent, one of the most crucial exercises for your infant is tummy time. Regular tummy time not only fortifies your baby's neck and shoulder muscles but also helps to develop their motor skills. No matter how busy the day may be, ensure that your baby gets at least 30 minutes of tummy time.
Why Daily Tummy Time is Fundamental?
Tummy time is more than mere play; it serves a significant role in your baby's development. Placing your baby on his or her tummy builds the necessary strength required to make milestones like lifting their head, rolling over, sitting up, and crawling.
Furthermore, tummy time aids in preventing conditions like flat head syndrome and tight neck muscles. It's not just about physical development, tummy time also gives your baby a fresh perspective of the world, thereby helping in sensory development too.
Understanding Muscle Development in Infants
When babies are born, they do not have the strength to hold up their heads or roll over. These muscles grow and acquire force through different forms of movement, such as tummy time. As your baby grows older and stronger, the time spent on the tummy increases, helping in strengthening the neck and shoulder muscles, among others.
Here's a bit more detailed view on how tummy time contributes to your baby's development:
Neck muscles : Tummy time motivates your baby to lift their head, which gradually helps in strengthening the neck muscles.
Shoulder muscles : Your baby using their arms to push up during tummy time helps in developing the shoulder and upper body muscles.
Motor skills: The movement during tummy time also helps your infant develop their motor skills and coordination.
Making Tummy Time Fun
30 minutes of tummy time can be spread throughout the day, making it easier for your baby and you. However, some babies may not initially enjoy tummy time, and that's where the role of fun and toys comes into play. Here are some ways to make tummy time interesting:
Interactive Toys: Introduce some toys that your baby loves during tummy time. Babies would be more motivated to lift their heads and reach for their beloved toys, hence having fun while exercising their muscles.
Join Them : You can make tummy time a bonding time, too. Lie down next to your baby and talk, sing, or read stories.
Tummy Time Mats: Invest in a tummy time mat. They are colourful, often have mirrors and play sounds which can provide interesting stimuli for the baby.
Tummy Time Do's and Don'ts
While tummy time is vital, it's equally important to do it under supervision and be aware of certain do's and don'ts:
Never Leave Your Baby Unattended: Babies, especially newborns, can't lift their heads or roll over, and leaving them alone can be risky. Always supervise tummy time.
Don’t Force : If your baby gets cranky or too tired during tummy time, give them a break. Forcing can make it a negative experience for them.
Conclusion
Remember, every baby is different and they all reach their milestones at their own pace. Tummy time is an engaging and enjoyable way to help your baby grow strong. Make it a daily routine, but also make it fun! Smile, interact and play with your baby during this time. Show them that #TummyTime is a fantastic time with #LittleKooma!
Hoping this blog post has inspired and educated you on the importance of daily tummy time.