Tummy Time for Babies: What It Is, Benefits, and When to Start

Whether your baby is an enthusiastic participant or an outspoken opponent of tummy time, it’s essential for his development.

Here’s everything you need to know about tummy time and how to get your baby flexing those newborn muscles.

Tummy time refers to placing your baby on his stomach (while he’s awake) and supervising him for a block of time.

This position encourages him to raise his head and exercise his neck, shoulders, back, and arms. It’s like baby gym time (without the monthly fees and machine rotation).

Again, tummy time is exclusively for babies when they’re awake and being supervised; young infants should sleep on their backs, never their stomachs. A popular mantra goes like this: “back to sleep, tummy to play.” 1

Why is tummy time so important for babies?

Tummy time has no shortage of benefits. For starters, it juices up the muscles your baby needs for lifting his head, rolling over, sitting up, crawling, and walking. He won’t get this kind of targeted action lying on his back. 2

It also: 2

• Boosts motor skills: Once your baby can lift his head, he’ll be in a better position to reach for toys and refine skills like hand-eye coordination.
• Prevents flat spots: Babies are at risk of developing flat spots on their heads (positional plagiocephaly) if they lie in the same position for too long. Regular tummy time sessions can help prevent flat spots from developing on the back of your baby’s head (although some babies do still develop them even after having a lot of tummy time). 3
• Offers a new perspective: Staring up at the ceiling all day gets dull. Tummy time gives your baby a different view of the world, which boosts his cognitive development.
• May alleviate gas: If you’ve got a gassy baby on your hands, the extra pressure on his stomach during tummy time may help break up gas bubbles and keep the wind moving. 4

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) gives the green light for tummy time quite early. You can start it on your little one’s first day home from the hospital (provided he was a full-term baby)—just be careful about the umbilical stump.

You can incorporate short sessions into his daily routine as long as he’s healthy and alert. You may want to schedule these to follow diaper changes or feedings (since that’s when you’re giving your baby extra attention already). If so, for the latter, consider waiting about 20–30 minutes to avoid spit-ups and discomfort. 5

Don’t worry if your newborn doesn’t immediately embrace tummy time, as many babies need to adjust. Start slowly and ease into longer durations as he gets stronger and more comfortable in his new position. As you build a routine, consider keeping track of how it’s going in your journal or in one of these baby tracker apps so that you can make adjustments as necessary.

For a gentle introduction, place him across your lap or hold him chest-to-chest as you lie down on your back. You can also use the “football hold,” with his belly along your forearm and you supporting his head and neck.

How long should tummy time last?

Here are some tummy time duration and frequency suggestions for you: 6

• Newborns (0 to 4 weeks old): Your baby may only tolerate a few minutes of tummy time per session as he learns to lift his head and turn it slightly. Begin with 2–3 daily sessions lasting 1–2 minutes each.
• 1 month to 3 months old: During this period, your baby will start lifting his head higher for longer stretches, eventually leading to 45-degree head turns and mini-pushups on his forearms to raise his chest off the floor. Encourage his progress by slowly bumping his tummy time up by 3–5 minutes per session. Aim for 15–30 total minutes throughout the day.
• 4 months to 7 months old: At this point, you’ll see your baby holding his chin and chest high off the floor. He may even reach for toys and roll over from his back to his stomach. Feel free to extend his tummy sessions to 30 minutes or longer. By this age, he should get around 60–90 minutes (or more) of tummy time daily.

Giving your baby a break is perfectly fine if he gets fussy. The goal is to make tummy time a positive, enjoyable experience, not a battle of wills.

Once your baby can roll over by himself, you don’t need to worry about timetables as much and can let him take control of his own tummy time, at least to an extent.

Can babies in the NICU do tummy time?

As mentioned, most parents can start tummy time almost as soon as you’re back from the hospital. But what about parents of babies who are in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU)?

Most likely, if your baby is in the NICU, he can and should still do tummy time. If your baby’s doctor or intensive-care team gives you the go-ahead, you can try placing your baby on your chest, lap, or on the surface of the bed. 7

Just be sure to follow your healthcare team’s guidance and be mindful of any tubes your baby may have had inserted.

If you want to convert your baby into tummy time’s number one fan, there are plenty of ways to make it more interesting for him.

Start by getting onto your baby’s level. Lie down face-to-face with him. From there, you can talk, sing, or make silly faces.

You can also use the following strategies to keep him engaged: 3

• Provide toys: Grab colorful toys, rattles, or an unbreakable mirror and plop them in front of your little one. This will motivate him to lift his head and reach out, which helps build hand-eye coordination. Rotate objects regularly to keep things interesting.
• Prop up your baby: If your baby struggles to lift his head, you can use a rolled-up towel or nursing pillow to support his chest. He’ll appreciate the comfort (and better vantage point). Gradually reduce the support as he gets stronger.
• Change the scenery: The floor can get boring fast, so don’t be afraid to switch tummy time locations. You can try your bed (with close supervision) or even outdoors on a blanket.
• Involve siblings: If you have older children, bring them in on the fun. A sibling’s presence can be a great source of entertainment—and motivation.
• Massage: Channel your inner masseuse by gently rubbing your baby’s back and legs during tummy time. The attention will help him relax and feel more comfortable.

What if your baby hates tummy time?

It’s normal for babies to rebel against tummy time initially, but that doesn’t mean you can’t help him warm up to it.

To get your baby more into tummy time, try: 8

• Shortening tummy time sessions: Start by shortening your baby’s tummy time sessions to just a minute or two, and then gradually increase the duration as he gets more used to it. As mentioned, it’s fine to take breaks if he throws a tantrum. Just pick him up, comfort him, and try again later.
• Keeping him comfortable: Make sure that your baby is comfortable during tummy time, too. Use a comfortable surface that isn’t too hot or cold, and check that he isn’t hungry or tired before starting a session.
• Placing him on his side: As an alternative, you could also try putting him on his side to see if he’s more comfortable in that position. Use a rolled-up towel to position your baby on his side. Keep his arms out in front and his legs forward and bent at the knees. This is a temporary fix, though, and shouldn’t completely replace tummy time.

Above all, be consistent. Even a few minutes of daily tummy time will be invaluable for your baby’s development. Keep experimenting with different techniques to find what works best for you and your baby.

As mentioned, each baby adapts differently to tummy time, so it’s usually not an issue if your baby is a little (or very) resistant to it at first. However, if he constantly cries or seems uncomfortable during tummy time, take him in for a checkup with your doctor to make sure no other problems are at play.

It’s also a good idea to speak with your doctor if your baby: 9

• Was born preterm
• Has any physical disabilities
• Has reflux

Your doctor can give you more tailored guidance for how to adapt tummy time to your baby’s needs.

From developing stronger motor skills to making sure his head develops normally, tummy time will give your baby the practice he needs to reach milestones like crawling, standing, and walking.

Remember that, as with many aspects of parenting, patience and perseverance are key. With your support and encouragement, your baby will be on his way to becoming a tummy time master.