Episode 93: When to Start Tummy Time

In the episode I discuss:

What is it: allowing baby to spend time on their tummy when they are awake and alert
The history behind Tummy Time: NYTimes article that I referenced: https://www.nytimes.com/2020/04/13/parenting/baby/tummy-time
It is important to help baby develop gross motor skills, overall development and to prevent against brachycephaly, plagiocephaly and torticollis
- In 2020, the AAP published a meta analysis that reviewed the effectiveness of tummy time and it found that tummy time was positively associated with gross motor, total development, a reduction in BMI, it helped prevent brachycephaly, and helped babies develop the ability to move while on their belly, while laying down, roll and crawl https://publications.aap.org/pediatrics/article/145/6/e20192168/76940/Tummy-Time-and-Infant-Health-Outcomes-A-Systematic
How to do it: When baby is awake and alert, place baby on a clean swaddle blanket that is laid out on the floor.
- A parent or caregiver should always be present and awake.
- You can also put baby on your chest while you are laying back
How long to do it: The World Health Organization recommends 30 minutes per day, an easy way to remember this and get close to it is 5x5, five times per day for five minutes
How to make it more enjoyable for baby: Join baby on the floor by laying on your side or belly and talk or sing to them
- Put black and white images in front of baby or a baby mirror
- Add toys in front of baby