Have you ever wondered why it is important to start tummy time when your baby is a newborn? I thought it was too early to do so I started researching its importance of it. First off, it helps prevent flat spots on the back of the baby’s head and most importantly it makes the neck and shoulders stronger for when your baby starts to sit up and crawl.
The first time you start tummy time is when your baby’s umbilical cord has fallen off. Secondly, when starting tummy time with your newborn only encourage it for a minute at a time a couple of times a day. If the baby starts crying take a break. An easy way to ease your baby into tummy time is by lying baby on your chest. This will be a lot more comforting to them being so close to you instead of on the floor. Newborns like to have their heads to one side while on their bellies, so often move their heads to the opposite side to help tighten their neck muscles. Eventually, as your baby gets stronger place high-contrast cards or toys (https://www.target.com/p/tiny-love-magical-tales-black-38-white-gymini-play-activity-gym/-/A-76152398) in front of them as this will help them lift up their chin. You can also include dad into tummy time by having him carry the baby in a football style on his forearm.
The more you spend tummy time with the baby the stronger they will get as they build their muscles for coordination that is needed for rolling over, crawling walking, and playing! My best advice is to be consistent and keep it in short spurts!
