- my iParenting
- quick clicks
- babies today articles
- babies today q&a
- toddlers today articles
- toddlers today q&a
- breastfeed.com articles
- breastfeed.com q&a
- message boards
- research baby names
- prepare a birth plan
- content channels
- ip channel rss feeds
- read birth stories
- read parenting stories
- recommended books
- e-newsletters
- safety recalls
- ip diaries
- ip store
- mom of the month
- dad of the month
- editor's letter
- letters to the editor
 |
- e-newsletters
- Sign up to receive our free weekly e-newsletters
- award-winning products
The iParenting Media Awards program helps parents find the best products for their families.
Tummy Time
A Physical Therapist Explains the Importance of Tummy Time Play
By Donna Smith
Can/should I start tummy time with a newborn? What can I do?
You absolutely should start early, making it easier for your baby to accept being placed in this position. Obviously, with a new baby, you are concerned with the basics, such as feeding, sleeping, changing and bonding. You can't really "play" with a baby at this stage, so tummy time activities are centered around holding and soothing. A few tips:
- Start small: aim for a few minutes at a time, several times a day.
- Lay your baby tummy down across your lap to settle him down instead of holding him upright on your shoulder. Pat his bottom gently to calm him in this position.
Enjoy some together time. Lie down and place your baby "tummy-to-tummy" or "tummy-to-chest." - When carrying your baby around the house, carry her tummy-side down instead of upright.
What should I do with a baby after 3 weeks?
As your baby reaches 3 weeks of age, she is beginning to recognize faces and sounds. This is the perfect time to begin to incorporate more tummy time into her day.
