As a new parent, you’ve probably heard a lot about “tummy time”, but you might be wondering, “When can I start tummy time with newborn, exactly?” Tummy time is a crucial activity that helps strengthen your baby’s muscles, develop motor skills, and even prevent flat head syndrome.

While it may seem like a simple task, knowing when and how to introduce tummy time safely can make a significant difference in your baby’s comfort and progress. In this guide, we’ll cover why tummy time is essential, when to start, how to do it safely, and expert tips to make the experience enjoyable for both you and your little one.

Why Does Newborns Need to Do Tummy Time?

Placing your newborn on their belly during those awake hours might seem like just another daily activity, but it’s actually a big deal for their physical, sensory, and cognitive development! Here’s why tummy time is so important:

Builds Strong Muscles and Promotes Motor Skills

Tummy time helps your baby build the strength they need to lift their head, roll over, crawl, and eventually walk. Starting tummy time early promotes strong neck, shoulder, and core muscles. Research has shown that babies who consistently practice tummy time reach motor milestones earlier than those who don’t.

Prevents Flat Head Syndrome

Tummy time also plays a key role in preventing flat head syndrome (positional plagiocephaly). Because newborns have soft skulls, spending too much time on their backs can cause a flat spot to form. Giving your baby supervised tummy time throughout the day helps distribute pressure more evenly and encourages natural head shaping.

Encourages Sensory Exploration

Lying on their tummy gives babies a new perspective on the world. They learn how to coordinate movements, track objects, reach for toys, and explore their surroundings. This helps with their sensory and cognitive development.

Strengthens Parent-Baby Bonding

Tummy time is a great opportunity for bonding! Whether you’re lying face-to-face with your baby or playing with toys together, tummy time helps build your connection while encouraging their development.

When Should Newborn Start Tummy Time?

The short answer is start early and build gradually!

You can introduce tummy time as early as day one (yes, really!)—but not in the way you’re picturing. For brand-new newborns, “tummy time” can simply mean snuggling skin-to-skin on your chest while they’re awake. This cozy position still lets them practice lifting their head (even if it’s just a wobbly millimeter!) and strengthens those neck muscles.

By the time your baby is 2-3 weeks old, aim for short, intentional sessions on a firm, flat surface. Start with just 1–2 minutes, 2–3 times a day.

As your baby becomes more comfortable and their strength increases, you can gradually extend these sessions. By the time your baby is around 3 months old, try to work up to about an hour of tummy time daily, broken into smaller sessions.

How to Do Tummy Time Safely?

Now that you know when to start tummy time with newborn, let’s tackle the how. You want to make sure your baby is comfortable and protected while they work on building those important muscles. Here’s how to do it right:

1. Always Supervise

This is rule #1: Never leave your baby alone during tummy time. Stay close, keep them in your line of sight, and avoid distractions (yes, even that tempting Instagram scroll!). Newborns are still learning to control their heads, so they might face-plant into the mat or get frustrated—your presence keeps them calm and secure.

2. Use a Firm, Flat Surface

Skip soft beds, couches, or fluffy blankets. Soft surfaces can make it harder for your baby to push up and increase the risk of suffocation. Instead, place your baby on a firm, flat surface like:

·            A playmat on the floor

·            A clean, carpeted area

·            A thin blanket over hardwood/tile

3. Start Short and Sweet and Gradually Build Up

Begin with 1–2 minutes of tummy time and gradually increase as your baby grows stronger. Watch for cues like:

·            Happy engagement: Cooing, reaching for toys, lifting their head

·            Fussiness: Crying, face-planting, or squirming

If they’re upset, it’s okay to end the session early! You can try again later when they’re rested or in a better mood. By 3-4 months, many babies can hold their head up steadily for longer stretches (5–10 minutes at a time!).

4. Support Their Position

Newborns often struggle with tummy time at first. Help them feel comfy with these tricks:

·           Roll a small towel under their chest/arms to prop them up slightly.

·           Place your hand gently on their bottom to stabilize their hips.

·           Try “chest-to-chest” time by lying back and letting them rest on your torso—they’ll love your heartbeat and warmth!

5. Avoid Tummy Time Right After Feeding

It’s best to wait about 30 minutes after a feeding before starting tummy time. Right after eating, your baby may be uncomfortable or gassy, and tummy time could increase the chances of them spitting up.

6. Dress Them for Success

Opt for fitted clothing without bulky snaps, buttons, or hoods that could dig into their skin or restrict movement. A simple onesie or stretchy pants works great!

Tips to Help Your Baby with Tummy Time

Tummy time can be a bit challenging for some babies at first, but there are plenty of ways to make it easier and more enjoyable for both of you. Here are some tips to help your little one get the most out of tummy time:

Choose the Right Time

Pick a time when your baby is calm, alert, and well-rested. Tummy time works best when your baby isn’t too tired, hungry, or overstimulated. A good moment is after a nap or diaper change when they’re content and ready to interact.

Avoid starting tummy time right after feeding, as this can lead to spit-up or discomfort. Wait at least 20–30 minutes after feeding for a more comfortable session.

Get Down to Their Level

Babies love interaction, so get down on the floor and make tummy time a bonding experience. Lie face-to-face with your baby and engage them with smiles, songs, or funny facial expressions. Your presence will comfort them and encourage them to lift their head and engage with you.

If your baby seems uninterested, try clapping, waving a toy, or gently talking to capture their attention. Babies love seeing and hearing their parents!

Use Props to Engage Them

Bright colors, interesting textures, mirrors, and toys that make sounds can stimulate your baby’s senses and help make tummy time more engaging.

One standout choice is the Alilo Smarty Bunny Baby Rattle. This cute bunny-shaped rattle is designed with an easy-to-grasp handle, perfect for little hands. Your baby will love shaking it to enjoy 66 different natural sounds, while the soft, silicone bunny ears are safe for mouthing.

What really sets the Alilo rattle apart, though, is its versatility. It doubles as a music player, offering soothing nursery rhymes, lullabies, and stories to help calm your baby during fussy moments or as part of your bedtime routine. The bunny’s ears even light up in seven different colors, encouraging visual tracking and boosting sensory development.

During tummy time, you can place the rattle just out of reach, prompting your baby to lift their head, reach, and explore. The sounds and lights will grab their attention, helping to make tummy time not only beneficial but fun and interactive.

Incorporate Tummy Time into Daily Activities

Tummy time doesn’t have to be a separate activity. You can sneak in tummy time during diaper changes, while you’re playing on the floor, or even after bath time. The more opportunities you give your baby to strengthen their muscles, the quicker they’ll build the skills they need.

Try Tummy Time on Your Chest or Lap

If your baby is really resistant to tummy time on the floor, try doing it on your chest or lap!

●       Chest-to-Chest Tummy Time: Lie down and place your baby tummy-down on your chest. This also gives them a chance to hear your heartbeat and bond with you.

●       Lap Tummy Time: Lay your baby across your lap with their tummy on your thighs for a more supported position.

Be Patient and Consistent

It’s normal for babies to fuss during tummy time, especially in the beginning. Their muscles are still developing, and tummy time can feel like hard work. Start with short sessions (1–2 minutes) and gradually increase the duration as they get stronger.

Consistency is key. Aim for multiple short sessions throughout the day rather than one long session. Celebrate small victories, and your baby will eventually adjust to tummy time and enjoy it!

Conclusion

Tummy time is one of the simplest yet most important activities you can do to support your baby’s development. By starting early and practicing regularly, you’re helping your baby build strength, improve motor skills, and explore their world safely.

So, when can I start tummy time with newborn? The answer is: right now! With the right approach and engaging toys like the Alilo Smarty Baby Rattle, you can make tummy time fun, safe, and effective.

FAQs

How early can you start doing tummy time?

You can start tummy time as soon as your baby comes home from the hospital. Begin with short sessions of 1–2 minutes, gradually increasing as your baby builds strength.

Can I do tummy time at 2 weeks?

Yes, tummy time is safe for a 2-week-old. At this stage, try chest-to-chest tummy time or short sessions on a flat, firm surface.

What happens if you don’t do tummy time with a newborn?

Skipping tummy time can delay motor development and increase the risk of flat head syndrome. Babies who miss tummy time may take longer to reach milestones like rolling and crawling.

Can a nursing pillows be used for tummy time?

Yes, a nursing pillow can be used during tummy time to support your baby’s chest and help them lift their head. Always supervise closely during use.