As mothers and fathers, we tend to concentrate on feeding, sleeping, and protecting our little ones. But there’s another easy activity that significantly contributes to your baby’s development—tummy time. Pediatric specialist Dr Amandeep Singh, Greater Noida West, we frequently discuss with new parents how tummy time contributes to general baby growth during the early months.
Whether you have an older child or you’re a first-time parent, learning why tummy time is important can help you encourage your baby’s healthy development right from the start.
Tummy time matters; it can help you to support your baby’s healthy growth from the very beginning.
What is Tummy Time?
The idea behind tummy time is to place a baby on the stomach, awake and under constant supervision. Although it sounds like just a little bit of their day, it is one of the most important time slots that contribute to their physical and sensory growth.
During tummy time, babies acquire the ability to lift their heads, push up on their arms, and eventually work towards rolling over. These movements forge strength in the neck, shoulder, back, and core muscles which are so needed for sitting, crawling, and walking later on.
Our pediatric clinic in Greater Noida West always advises parents to initiate tummy time from the very first few weeks after birth. Even a few minutes a day can go a long way towards doing so.
Why is Tummy Time Important for Your Baby?
1. Strengthens Muscles
Tummy time helps your baby build neck and upper body strength, which is important for future milestones like rolling over, crawling, and even walking. Babies who get regular tummy time often reach these milestones sooner and with more confidence.
2. Prevents Flat Head Syndrome
Babies spend a lot of time lying on their backs. Too much time on the back can lead to a flat spot on the head, a condition known as positional plagiocephaly. Tummy time helps prevent this by giving the back of the head a break and encouraging a more rounded head shape.
3. Boosts Motor Skills
Tummy time allows babies to explore movement and build motor coordination. It gives them the chance to wiggle, reach, and try to move—helping their brain and body work together.
4. Encourages Sensory Development
Being on the tummy offers a new perspective of the world. Babies look around differently, feel different textures, and use their eyes in a new way. This stimulates their sensory system and improves visual tracking.
When Should You Start Tummy Time?
Tummy time is a developmental activity that can be initiated during the newborn stages and even in the initial few weeks after birth. In the beginning, a duration of 2-3 minutes a couple of times a day should be sufficient. Increase the duration slowly as the baby grows stronger.
Parents are instructed on ways to make tummy time a fun and safe experience, with age-appropriate tummy time exercises depending on the growth and comfort of the baby.
How to Make Tummy Time Easy and Fun
Some babies may fuss a bit during tummy time—and that’s okay. It’s a new experience for them. Here are a few simple ways to make tummy time easier for you and your baby:
- Use a playmat or soft blanket on the floor
- Place toys or a mirror in front of them for entertainment
- Lie down facing them and talk or sing
- Do tummy time on your chest while you lie down—it gives comfort and closeness
- Try short sessions multiple times a day
Remember, consistency matters more than duration in the early weeks.
What If My Baby Doesn’t Like Tummy Time?
Some babies indeed resist tummy time in the beginning. Be gentle and patient, though. Tummy time could take place when the baby is well-fed, well-rested, and calm. One can also hold the baby in an upright position or give tummy time on his or her lap if the floor feels too hard.
If your baby continues to hate tummy time or seems oddly stiff or floppy, do visit us at Pediatric Clinic in Greater Noida West. We shall check the muscle tone of the baby and demonstrate some useful techniques to you.
How Much Tummy Time Does My Baby Need?
Here’s a simple guide:
| Baby’s Age | Recommended Tummy Time |
| 0–1 month | A few minutes, 2–3 times a day |
| 1–3 months | 15–30 minutes daily (split across sessions) |
| 3–6 months | Up to 1 hour daily (split across sessions) |
As your baby grows stronger, tummy time will become a natural part of playtime.
Tummy Time and Sleep: What’s the Connection?
It’s important to know that tummy time is for when your baby is awake and supervised. For sleep, babies should always be placed on their backs to reduce the risk of SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome). If you’d like to read more about safe sleep practices and baby sleep habits, check out our full blog on Sleep Routine.
A Final Word for Parents in Greater Noida West
At Pediatric New Born Clinic, we recognize that every baby is unique. Tummy time may take different forms for each baby, which is perfectly ok. The key is to incorporate it into your baby’s daily routine and enjoy seeing them become stronger each day. If you feel unsure or would simply like a demonstration for tummy time to carry on, we’re here to help. The pediatrician in Greater Noida West will provide you friendly advice and bespoke baby care support.
