Tummy time plays a central role in early childhood development. It is much more than a simple position: it is an exercise that helps babies discover their world and develop important motor skills. From the third month onwards, parents can actively encourage this important position. In this article, you will learn why tummy time is so important, what pediatricians recommend, when you should start encouraging it and how water play mats can help.
The importance of the prone position
Tummy time helps babies strengthen their neck, shoulder, back and arm muscles. These muscles are critical for later development of skills such as head control, rolling, sitting, crawling and standing. Tummy time also helps babies learn to actively explore their environment, which stimulates cognitive development and sensory processing.
Recommendations from pediatricians
Pediatricians recommend starting tummy time as soon as the baby is able to hold his head up on his own, usually around the third month of life. It is recommended to practice tummy time daily, starting with a few minutes and gradually increasing the duration to encourage the baby's tolerance for it.
The start of active support
Actively encouraging tummy time should begin as soon as the baby shows a certain level of neck stability. A few minutes is enough to start with, and it is important not to overwhelm the baby. Tummy time can be incorporated as part of play, making sure the baby is awake and alert.
Water play mats as effective support
Water play mats can be an effective and fun way to encourage tummy time. These mats are filled with water and provide an engaging, soft surface. They often feature floating elements that encourage baby to lift their head and use their arms to grab and squeeze. This not only strengthens muscles, but also promotes visual and tactile perception.
Final thoughts
Tummy time is a simple but powerful tool in a baby's development. It lays the foundation for future milestones and promotes healthy development. By incorporating this practice regularly and in a playful way, parents help their babies lay a strong foundation for motor development.